In a widely circulated video,
the wife of a prominent Eastern Security Network (ESN) commander has accused
the traditional ruler of Owerre-Ezukala, Igwe Thomas Ogbannaya, of colluding
with ESN members to carry out violent acts in Anambra State.
The confession surfaced
following a military raid on Owerre-Ezukala last Tuesday as part of Operation
Udoka in the southeastern region. During interrogation by Nigerian Army
personnel, Mrs. Ujunwa Agueze, whose husband Onyedika Agueze remains at large,
revealed that the Igwe allocated land to IPOB/ESN members in 2022, establishing
an operational base.
"From this camp, all the
killings and kidnappings in Anambra South Senatorial zone have been
orchestrated," Mrs. Agueze disclosed. She further stated that the Igwe
frequently employed ESN members in local land disputes.
Residents report numerous
killings, arson attacks, and abductions, with victims sometimes disappearing
permanently. Owerre-Ezukala, situated in Orumba South LGA of Anambra State,
borders Alaw in Orji-River LGA of Enugu State and Isuochi in Umunneochi LGA of
Abia State. ESN operatives, allegedly based in Isuochi, reportedly cross into
Abia State on foot to carry out attacks and kidnappings, often attributed to
the "unknown gunmen" camp in Umunneochi.
The group is also accused of
targeting soldiers in Imo State and frequently brings kidnap victims to
Owerre-Ezukala, releasing some upon ransom payment while others remain captive
or vanish entirely.
Independent investigations
indicate ESN's pervasive presence in Owerre-Ezukala, with members residing in
local youths' homes and operating without hindrance, shielded by the community.
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