Aba, Abia State – The city of Aba is engulfed in tension as soldiers have taken control following the killing of five soldiers at a military checkpoint in Obikabia junction, Ogbor Hill. The attack, allegedly carried out by gunmen enforcing the Indigenous People of Biafra’s (IPOB) sit-at-home order, left five soldiers dead and two patrol vans burned.
In response, military helicopters have been hovering over the Ogbor Hill area, exacerbating the fear among residents. The sight of rapidly moving military patrols has caused widespread panic, with people fleeing to safety.
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Markets, including those at Cemetery, Ngwa Road, and Nsulu, have been shut down by soldiers, forcing traders to abandon their businesses. Schools in the city have also been affected, with many remaining closed or sending students home early as parents kept their children indoors.
Despite the turmoil, the Aba main motor park remains busy. However, soldiers have vacated checkpoints at Asa Road and Emelogu junction in Ogbor Hill, causing mixed reactions among residents.
Several areas, including Umuola, Ukaegbu, Ehere, New Umuahia, and Ururuka roads in Ogbor Hill, as well as Obohia and Ohanku in Ndiegoro, have seen residents staying indoors to avoid potential military reprisals.
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The situation has also affected transportation on the Aba-Umuahia section of the Enugu-Port Harcourt expressway, with soldiers barricading the road. Passengers are forced to disembark at Arungwa, Umuekea, Isiala Ngwa, and Ntigha junctions, continuing their journey on foot while raising their hands. Motorists are opting for local routes to avoid the numerous checkpoints.
Efforts to reach Lt. Innocent Omale, the Army Public Relations Officer of the 14 Brigade, Ohafia, for comments have been unsuccessful.
The situation remains volatile as the military pledges to maintain control over hotspots during the Yuletide season.
