On Wednesday morning, gunshots were heard across Owerri, the capital city of Imo State.
Beyond Boders reports that the incident happened just one day before a planned nationwide protest.
Suspected criminals carried out the shootings, causing panic among residents. Many people, including traders and workers, quickly ran for safety as the gunfire continued.
The attackers moved through different parts of the city without being stopped by security forces.
The shootings occurred in areas like Akwakuma and Orji before the security forces arrived. By then, the attackers had already left.
Traders who had just opened their shops were forced to close them again, and customers who were out buying food ran away to avoid being harmed.
Bus drivers, restaurants, and other businesses also shut down as people fled.
The streets of Owerri became empty, and all markets were closed.
The gunfire was reported in several parts of the city, including IMSU back gate, Wethedral Road, Amawusa, Ikenegbu, Owerri Municipal, and Douglas Road.
The Imo State Police Command has responded, with Commissioner of Police CP Aboki Danjuma personally leading officers to the affected areas.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, stated that the police are handling the situation and are determined to catch those responsible, dead or alive.
ASP Okoye urged residents to report any suspicious activities to the police, calling this a challenging time.
As of the latest reports, normalcy has returned to the city.
