Gunmen stormed Umualoma, Ndiakunwanta and Ndiejezie communities in Arondizogu, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State on Friday, killing at least seven persons and leaving several others critically injured.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers, who rode on motorbikes, opened fire on locals, including shop owners, customers and passersby.
A chilling account from the scene
“The people who died were in different bars drinking, or were the people selling and attending to their customers. I heard they also shot at people who were playing a draft game to while away time. As I speak to you, about 12 people are lying dead, and many are critically injured due to running to seek safety,”
a source told our correspondent on condition of anonymity.Police confirm killings, blame suspected IPOB/ESN
In a statement on Friday, Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye confirmed the killings and said normalcy had been restored.
“The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, has strongly condemned the gruesome attack carried out by gunmen suspected to be members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN in the early hours of today, 25th July 2025, at Ndi-Ejezie, Umualaoma, and Ndiakuwata Uno, all in Arondizuogu, Ideato North LGA.”
“The senseless assault, which claimed the lives of over seven persons and left several others critically injured, was described by the CP as barbaric, inhumane, and totally unacceptable. He assured the public that the Command has deployed adequate operational and intelligence assets to identify, apprehend, and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
“Consequently, the CP has led tactical units for intense combing of the affected areas and affirmed that the situation is now under control, and proactive security measures have been taken to forestall further attacks and restore lasting peace in the region.”
“While expressing heartfelt sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives, CP Aboki Danjuma prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and a speedy recovery for the injured. He also extended his condolences to the bereaved and encouraged them to remain strong during this difficult time,” the statement read.
