The rising tide of violence and lawlessness in Orsu, Imo State, has taken a disturbing turn with the recent arson attack on the luxurious mansion of Chief Emmanuel Ndinkora Ozuhue, popularly known as Orsu Zuo Oke 1. The opulent residence, valued at over ₦400 million, was set ablaze by unidentified armed assailants on Sunday, October 13, 2024, around 10:00 AM, marking a new low in the region’s deteriorating security situation.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed calls for decisive government action to curb the escalating crisis.
Chief Ndinkora, speaking from his residence abroad, conveyed his profound sorrow and frustration over the tragic loss. Despite living overseas, he has maintained a strong connection to his homeland, serving as both Chairman and President General of the Udah Union in Diaspora. His involvement in the development and welfare of Orsu has been unwavering, yet this attack has left him heartbroken and disillusioned.
“For the past five years, Orsu Local Government Area has been battling an onslaught of insecurity,” Chief Ndinkora said, his voice heavy with emotion. “I have always stood for peace, unity, and progress in our community. To witness my home—a symbol of years of dedication and hard work—reduced to ashes is beyond devastating.”
Speculations are rife about the motives behind the attack. Some reports suggest that the arson might have been a reaction to Chief Ndinkora’s alleged financial support of ₦5 million to the Nigerian Army to assist in their anti-banditry operations within the area. This perceived alignment with military efforts may have made him a target, as local rumors point to various factions, including the Eastern Security Network (ESN), Biafra Liberation Army (BLA), and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Others simply refer to the perpetrators as Unknown Gunmen (UGM), reflecting the murky nature of the security crisis gripping the region.
The attack has raised serious questions about the effectiveness of the security apparatus in Orsu. Chief Ndinkora voiced his concerns over the seeming inability of local forces to prevent such brazen acts of violence, especially given the presence of military personnel stationed nearby. He issued a direct appeal to the Imo State government, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma, as well as to the Commissioner of Police and the Nigerian Army, urging them to take bold and immediate steps to restore peace.
“It is inconceivable that a property of this magnitude—worth over ₦400 million—could be destroyed so swiftly and so blatantly, without any meaningful intervention,” he lamented. “Our sense of safety has been shattered. I am pleading with the authorities to take urgent.
