Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has directed the closure of schools in the Nnewi zone amid heightened tensions ahead of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s burial.
The decision follows recent unrest in Nnewi, where gunmen attacked the area on Wednesday night, killing several individuals and setting a vehicle ablaze. The incident, which occurred around 7:30 p.m., caused panic, with many residents fleeing the area.
School Closure Circular
In a circular issued Thursday via WhatsApp, the state government instructed all principals in the Nnewi zone to close schools until Tuesday next week. Parents were also advised to keep day students at home for safety reasons.
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The circular stated:
Good morning Parents, please the above information is from the Commissioner of Education, day students should not come to school till Tuesday next week.
Good evening Noble Principals! I am directed to inform you to close all schools in Nnewi Zone on Thursday 21/11/2024 and Friday 22/11/2024.
Please circulate this information on your school WhatsApp groups and inform parents of your students. Try your best to find proper channels of reaching these students so that they would not be found wandering on the streets with their school uniforms. Remain blessed and stay safe!!!”
Police Deny Link Between Nnewi Attack and Burial
The Anambra State Police Command has refuted claims that the Nnewi killings are connected to the upcoming burial. Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, clarified that the attack was unrelated to the burial but stemmed from a confrontation between security operatives and a suspect.
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Ikenga explained:
“Preliminary investigations reveal that the security operatives were trailing a suspect when the gun duel ensued at a security checkpoint. Unfortunately, bullets hit the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan carrying the police personnel, causing it to catch fire. Two innocent bystanders were injured in the crossfire and are currently receiving medical attention.”
The command emphasized that the incident was not an attempt to disrupt the burial and assured residents that the Joint Security Forces (JSF) had been deployed to maintain peace during the ceremonies.
Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s Burial
The burial of the late Senator is scheduled for Friday in Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi. The state government and security agencies have called for calm and assured the public of safety as investigations into the attack continue.
