Residents of Obeagu, Nkalaha and other border communities in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have raised concerns over reports of a possible fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen, more than five years after a deadly invasion claimed at least 21 lives in the area.
Community leaders, in an audio message obtained by SaharaReporters, called on indigenes both at home and abroad to rally support and take proactive measures to prevent a repeat of the violence and kidnappings that have troubled the communities in recent years.
The leaders expressed concern that security challenges that contributed to the March 2021 massacre remain unresolved, leaving residents vulnerable to renewed attacks. They also highlighted the poor state of infrastructure, particularly in Obeagu, where inaccessible roads have continued to hinder security operations and emergency response efforts.
According to the community leaders, the lack of motorable roads has discouraged regular patrols by security agencies and delayed intervention during attacks.
One speaker in the recording lamented that security personnel often arrive long after attackers have fled, attributing the delays to the difficult terrain and poor road network.
Residents also voiced frustration over the absence of arrests or prosecutions linked to the 2021 killings despite the passage of more than five years. They claimed that crucial evidence recovered after the attack, including a mobile phone allegedly belonging to one of the attackers and related call logs, was handed over to security authorities.
The evidence was reportedly presented to both the Ebonyi State Police Command and former Vice President during his visit to the community following the massacre.
The attack, which occurred on March 29, 2021, was attributed to suspected Fulani militias and remains one of the deadliest incidents recorded in the area.
Speaking on the matter, community leader Chief Ogbonna Ede criticised security agencies for failing to bring those responsible to justice despite the evidence provided.
He recalled that Osinbajo had assured residents during his April 2021 visit that the Federal Government would identify and prosecute the perpetrators after receiving the phone and call records linked to one of the attackers.
Ede said the community had expected significant progress from investigators but was disappointed that no suspects had been arrested or prosecuted years later.
He also warned against ignoring reports of another possible attack, urging authorities to act before violence occurs rather than responding after lives have been lost.
The community leader called on the Ebonyi State Government to strengthen security across border communities and improve road infrastructure to ensure quicker emergency responses.
He further urged security agencies to investigate reports of impending attacks without delay and take preventive measures to avert another tragedy.
The warning comes amid ongoing concerns over attacks, kidnappings and violent clashes in several rural communities across Nigeria, where residents have repeatedly called for improved security and justice for victims of violence.
