OWERRI, Nigeria — Panic gripped the Eziobodo community in Owerri West Local Government Area, the host community of the Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), following a Wednesday night invasion by a suspected Fulani militia that left several people injured, including a minor.
The attack, which occurred around 9:00 p.m. on May 13, 2026, triggered a combined security response from the Imo State Police Command and local vigilante groups.
The Invasion and Foiled Abduction
According to local sources, the armed militia stormed the community on more than 20 motorcycles, riding recklessly to create panic. The gunmen attempted to kidnap a male resident along the Umuokwo Ihiagwa/Eziobodo Road.
The abduction was foiled when the Ihiagwa Vigilante Group and local residents mobilized swiftly, pursuing the attackers and successfully rescuing the victim. While no fatalities were recorded, the rescued victim sustained gunshot wounds during the crossfire and is currently hospitalized in Owerri.
Casualties and Resident Accounts
Several other residents were injured during the chaos as people fled for safety. Among the casualties is a minor who is currently receiving emergency medical treatment for a deep machete wound to the head.
A commercial motorcyclist also reported that he and his passenger were ambushed while traveling toward Eziobodo. Although they managed to escape the scene, the motorcyclist sustained gunshot injuries from the attackers.
Security Deployment and Police Response
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Imo State Command, Henry Okoye, confirmed the failed abduction and commended the collaborative efforts between the community and security forces.
In response to the raid, the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Garba Bosso, has ordered the immediate deployment of the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit, alongside tactical and intelligence teams, to Eziobodo, Ihiagwa, and adjoining communities.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the 34 Artillery Brigade in Owerri, Major Hashimu Sa’ad Abdullahi, stated that the military is gathering information and will provide further details on the security situation as the investigation progresses.
