According to reports, non-state actors had previously threatened to cause disruptions in the state if specific unresolved issues were not resolved prior to the burial.
Tensions escalated on Wednesday night as gunmen carried out a lethal assault in Nnewi, resulting in several fatalities and the torching of a vehicle. The attack took place at approximately 7:30 p.m., inciting widespread panic and prompting residents to flee for safety.
The burial is set to take place on Friday in Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi. To maintain safety, the state government released a notice via WhatsApp on Thursday, directing school principals within the Nnewi area to halt classes until Tuesday of the following week.
Parents of students who attend school during the day were likewise encouraged to keep their children at home for this duration.
Good morning, Parents. Please note that the information above is from the Commissioner of Education: day students should not attend school until Tuesday next week.
Good evening, esteemed principals!
I have been instructed to inform you that all schools in the Nnewi Zone should be closed on Thursday, November 21, 2024, and Friday, November 22, 2024.
Kindly share this information in your school’s WhatsApp groups and inform the parents of your students.
Please make every effort to find appropriate ways to reach these students, ensuring they are not seen wandering the streets in their school uniforms. Wishing you blessings and safety!
Anambra Police Refute Connection Between Nnewi Killings and Senator Ubah’s Burial
The Anambra State Police Command refuted assertions that the recent shootings and killings in Nnewi were linked to Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s funeral.
In a statement released on Thursday, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, clarified that contrary to speculation, the attackers were not non-state actors.
Ikenga mentioned that the Joint Security Forces (JSF) were deployed to Nnewi to uphold peace and guarantee the safety of both residents and visitors during the burial ceremonies.
Preliminary investigations indicate that security operatives were pursuing a suspect when the gunfight broke out at a security checkpoint.
Regrettably, bullets struck the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan transporting police personnel, causing it to ignite.
According to Ikenga, two innocent bystanders were caught in the crossfire and are now undergoing medical treatment.
The command asserted that the attack was not intended to disrupt the burial ceremonies of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
The authorities also encouraged the public to stay calm and let the investigations into the incident continue.
