Gunmen Kill 7 in Arondizuogu, Imo State – Suspected IPOB/ESN Attack

 
Terror struck the quiet communities of Umualoma, Ndiakunwanta, and Ndiejezie in Arondizuogu, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State on Friday, July 25, 2025, as gunmen stormed the area, killing at least seven people and leaving many others critically injured.

Eyewitnesses report that the attackers, who rode into the villages on motorbikes in the early hours of the morning, opened fire on unsuspecting residents. Victims included shop owners, their customers, and people gathered at local bars and game spots.

A local source, who requested anonymity, described the terrifying scene:

“The people who died were just relaxing—some were drinking, some selling goods, others playing a draft game to pass time. The gunmen came out of nowhere, shot randomly, and sped off. As we speak, about 12 people have died and many are receiving treatment for serious injuries.”

The Imo State Police Command confirmed the attack, stating that seven people were confirmed dead, with several others hospitalized. Police spokesperson Henry Okoye assured the public that normalcy had been restored to the area, following the swift deployment of tactical and intelligence units.

In a strongly worded statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, condemned the attack, which he blamed on suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant arm, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

“This senseless and barbaric act is completely unacceptable,” Danjuma said. “The Command has deployed adequate operational and intelligence resources to track down and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

He further stated that tactical units had been dispatched for a thorough combing of the affected villages. Security presence has since been heightened to prevent further violence.

The Police Commissioner also extended condolences to the victims’ families, praying for the peaceful repose of those who died and the speedy recovery of the injured.

“We urge residents to remain calm and vigilant. The Police are doing everything within their power to restore lasting peace in Arondizuogu and other parts of Imo State,” the statement concluded.

The tragic incident has left the community in mourning and raised fresh concerns about rising insecurity in Nigeria’s Southeast region.v