Outrage in Imo as youths protest rising killings, abductions in Owerri West (Video)

Tension flared in parts of Imo State on Tuesday as hundreds of youths staged protests over the persistent wave of killings, abductions and alleged farm invasions in communities across the state, particularly in Owerri West Local Government Area.

The demonstrators, who marched through major roads chanting solidarity songs and wielding placards bearing inscriptions such as “Enough is Enough” and “Protect Our Communities,” accused suspected armed herdsmen of terrorising residents and destroying farmlands without decisive action from authorities.

The protest was triggered by fresh attacks in Eziobodo community, Owerri West LGA, where gunmen, believed to be herders, reportedly killed several residents and injured others. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has heightened fear among locals and forced many families to flee their homes.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed parts of the agrarian community at night, shooting sporadically and creating panic. Several victims were said to have been rushed to nearby medical facilities, while security operatives were later deployed to the area to restore calm.

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Angered by what they described as “endless bloodshed,” the youths demanded urgent intervention from the Imo State Government and federal security agencies. They called for increased patrols, the establishment of security checkpoints in vulnerable communities and the arrest of those responsible for the attacks.

“We cannot continue to live in fear in our own land. Farmers are afraid to go to their farms. People are being kidnapped and killed. The government must act now,” one of the protest leaders told reporters during the march.

Community leaders in Owerri West echoed the concerns, warning that continued attacks could worsen food insecurity and deepen humanitarian challenges in the state. They urged authorities to collaborate with traditional rulers and local vigilante groups to enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response.

Efforts to get official comments from the Imo State Police Command were ongoing as of press time. However, security sources confirmed that additional personnel had been deployed to the affected areas to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

The protest adds to growing concerns over insecurity in several parts of Imo State, where residents have repeatedly raised alarm over violent attacks, kidnappings and clashes linked to armed groups.

As tension continues to rise, stakeholders are urging swift and decisive measures to prevent further loss of lives and restore confidence among residents