In southeastern Nigeria, at least 30 individuals were killed in a tragic incident when gunmen ambushed travelers on a key highway, as reported by Amnesty International. This attack unfolded on Thursday along the Okigwe-Owerri highway within Imo state, resulting in the destruction of over 20 vehicles and trucks, all set ablaze by the assailants.
The local authorities have verified the occurrence of the attack, although they have not confirmed the reported death toll. No faction has come forward to assume responsibility for this heinous act. However, suspicions fall on the Eastern Security Network, a paramilitary entity connected with the banned separatist organization Indigenous People of Biafra.
The call for an independent Biafra has historical roots tracing back to the late 1960s. The short-lived Republic of Biafra engaged in a devastating civil war against Nigeria, ending in defeat and resulting in the deaths of approximately 1 million people, predominantly due to starvation.
Amnesty International has urged the Nigerian government to investigate these unlawful killings promptly in accordance with international law, aiming to ensure the culprits face justice. Following the attack, one suspect was reportedly killed during a joint operation by security forces. Police spokesperson Okoye Henry stated that authorities are conducting an intensive search to capture other suspects involved and ensure they are held accountable.
Two leading figures of the Indigenous People of Biafra group, Nnamdi Kanu and Simon Ekpa, are under detention, with Kanu being tried on charges of terrorism and treasonable activities, charges to which he has pled not guilty. The Nigerian government has indicated that they are communicating with Finnish authorities regarding extradition procedures for Ekpa to ensure he faces the consequences of his alleged activities.
This incident is a part of a broader pattern of violence that continues to plague Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, with a population exceeding 210 million. The country has been grappling with ongoing unrest attributed to various armed extremist groups.