Anambra Governor Orders School Closure in Nnewi Zone Amid Security Concerns Surrounding Senator Ubah’s Burial

 

Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has ordered the closure of all schools in the Nnewi zone for one week due to escalating security concerns related to the burial of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. This precautionary measure follows a series of threats from non-state actors warning of potential disruptions unless specific issues were resolved before the burial.

The security situation worsened on Wednesday night, when gunmen attacked Nnewi, killing multiple individuals and setting a vehicle on fire. The incident, which took place around 7:30 p.m., caused widespread panic as residents fled for their safety.

Senator Ubah's burial is scheduled to take place on Friday in his hometown, Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi. In response to the growing concerns, the state government issued a directive through WhatsApp to principals and parents, announcing the closure of all schools in the zone from Thursday through Tuesday of the following week. Parents of day students were advised to keep their children at home, with a strict warning against students loitering in their uniforms.

While some speculated that the recent attack might be linked to the burial, Anambra State Police Command has dismissed these claims. Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, clarified that the gunmen involved in the attack were not non-state actors, as previously thought. He explained that the violence stemmed from a confrontation at a security checkpoint while law enforcement officials were pursuing a suspect. The gunfire exchange resulted in a Toyota Venza Sedan catching fire, injuring two bystanders who are now receiving medical treatment.

The police assured the public that Joint Security Forces (JSF) had been deployed to ensure peace during the burial proceedings. Ikenga urged residents to remain calm, stating, “Preliminary investigations show this incident was unrelated to the burial ceremonies of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. We urge the public to allow authorities to conclude their investigation.”

Despite the reassurances, tensions remain high in Nnewi as the community prepares for the burial, with heightened security measures in place to ensure safety amidst uncertainty.