Confusion, panic and palpable have enveloped Imezi Owa community in Ezeagu local government area of Enugu state following sudden attack by those alleged to be members of Nigerian military.
The incident happened on Thursday night even as many residents have sought refuge in the neighbouring communities.
An eye witness told WITHIN NIGERIA that group of men “perceived to be Nigerian military burnt houses to ashes in the community.”
According to the video obtained by our reporter, not less than ten houses were set ablaze in the community with no clear reason for the attack.
Findings showed that destruction occurred during an unexplained military, suspected to be carried out by Nigerian military of 82 division, Enugu.
David Chiemzie is a resident of the community; he told our reporter that “this is happening right in my hometown Imezi Owa Ezeagu LGA Enugu as we speak.
“Group of men perceived to be the Nigerian military are allegedly burning down people’s houses for reasons not so clear.
“Aren’t these military supposed to be protecting us. Aren’t they supposed to be safeguarding lives?
“Right now I don’t even know who to be scared of anymore, whether the people who are supposed to protect us or the actual bandits.”
One of the community residents Luke Magbo told our reporter that ” initially we thought it was the handiwork of Fulani herdsmen. But the next day, we were made to know that the invasion was carried out by Nigerian military of 82 division, Enugu.”
Narrating further, Mr. Magbo said that ” we are still assessing the level of damages caused by this deadly attack. Right now, we have reported the incident to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and possible solution.”
Asked the level of destruction, he said that “so far, no life has been reported lost in the incident.
“However, we heard that an elderly woman was trapped in one of the burning houses. But like I said, we are still assessing the level of damages inflicted on our community by this invasion.”
Nigerian Army reacts to the incident
The Nigerian Army has reacted to the alleged destruction of houses by the Troops of the 82 Division.
In a press release on Friday, May 8 by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni,
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army said the operation foiled the planned attack by members of indeginous People of Biafra, IPOB and ESN.
“Troops of Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with other security agencies while on intelligence led patrol mission to Imezi owa community, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State on 6 May 2026, foiled an attack by suspected terrorists of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN). The patrol was a follow-up to the trailing of terrorist collaborators in the community.
“While troops were advancing on foot to the community, they were attacked from a building, resulting in injuries to three personnel. Despite the attack, troops maintained operational dominance, foiled the attack and secured the general area, while the injured personnel were promptly evacuated. The wounded personnel are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility.
“During the exchange of fire, Improvised Explosive Devices stored by the terrorists in the building used as their hideout; detonated, and triggered a fire outbreak that destroyed the hideout. Subsequent searches around the general area uncovered more IEDs, improvised hand grenades and shrine used for ritual activities. The shrine was thoroughly combed and destroyed. This is to prevent continued usage for criminal activities and to safeguard the community members.
“One collaborator was apprehended during the exploitation around the general area. The arrested suspect and recovered items have been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Ezeagu Division, for further investigation.
“The general public is hereby reassured that ongoing operations are conducted with utmost professionalism and a firm commitment to protecting lives and property. The law abiding citizens of Imezi Owa community and its environs are encouraged to remain calm, desist from harbouring criminal elements and cooperate with security agencies.
“Headquarters Joint Task Force South East operation UDO KA hereby warn members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN and their sympathisers to desist from illegal activities or face the full consequences of their actions as usual. Security forces remain resolute in their determination to build the peace in the region and will continue to dismantle criminal networks and deny terrorists any freedom of action.”
