Gunmen kill one, injure another in Edo community attack

In a tragic incident, a man named Eni was killed by gunmen in the Marioghionoba community, also known as AT&P, in Okumu, Edo State. Another individual was severely injured during the attack, which took place after midnight on Monday. The assailants also set fire to seven vehicles, including five cars and two lorries, and destroyed several houses in the community.

The gunmen left behind unsigned handwritten letter on the chest of the deceased, in which they demanded a 25% share in Okomu Oil and requested to be included on the company’s board. They claimed to be members of the Ijaw Freedom Fighters, although this claim has not been confirmed. The group asserted that the land on which Okumu Oil is located belongs to them and called for the creation of a local government area for the Ijaw in Edo State, while also demanding that the Bini people vacate the area.

The letter, titled “To Governor Obaseki,” stated, “Let it be known to everybody that we are not criminals, but Ijaw Freedom Fighters in Edo State. All we need is freedom, a local government, and our rights. The ‘Oyibo’ (white man) and the Benin people must leave our land, or they will die. We are not fighting against the Nigerian Army personnel, but against the Okomu Palm Oil Company. We demand our rights. The ‘Oyibo’ and the Bini people must go. Leave our land legally, not illegally. Obaseki, we are not slaves.”

Rex Akpokiniovo, one of the community leaders, recounted that the gunmen arrived in the community after midnight, firing shots into the air. They proceeded to burn five cars, including his own, and two lorries. Akpokiniovo expressed his confusion regarding the motive behind the attack but mentioned that the handwritten note left by the assailants, along with a poster stating their demands, had been handed over to the Department of State Services and the police.

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, assured the public that security measures had been intensified in the affected area. He stated that a Deputy Commissioner of Police was leading the operation, with Mobile Policemen deployed on the ground. Adegboye expressed confidence that such incidents would not be repeated in the area.

This unfortunate incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures in the community and the importance of investigating the motives and demands of the attackers. The authorities must ensure the safety and well-being of the residents while working towards a resolution that addresses the concerns raised by the gunmen.