Residents of the Lilu community in the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State staged a massive protest on Friday, decrying the relentless killings and attacks by gunmen in their area and demanding an immediate intervention from Governor Chukwuma Soludo.Decrying “Mindless Killings”The demonstration saw men, women, and the elderly march from Aroma Junction, Awka, to the Government House, famously known as “Light House.” The protesters carried poignant placards with inscriptions like “Enough is enough,” “Soludo rescue us,” “Lilu is bleeding,” “Over 100 killed by unknown gunmen,” and “Our parents are refugees.”The demonstration was triggered by what they described as a series of “mindless killings,” including a particularly horrific attack last Sunday at St. Andrews Anglican Church, Lilu, where reports indicate the priest’s wife and one other person were tragically murdered.Community Spokesperson Narrates Worsening InsecurityThe protesters were received by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, on behalf of the governor.Speaking for the distraught community, a representative identified as Emeka stated that the goal of the protest was to force the government’s attention onto the drastically worsening insecurity in Lilu.Emeka further revealed the devastating impact of the violence, noting that the community has been compelled to postpone the burial of two recent victims. This decision followed the grim news that two other individuals who had sustained severe machete wounds in the Sunday church attack had succumbed to their injuries in the hospital.“The brutal gun attacks in our community began some years ago. In our first ugly experience, 11 kinsmen were killed, and these killings have continued; several houses have been burnt, and the palace…” Emeka explained, highlighting the long-term trauma and destruction suffered by the residents.Would you like me to search for any recent updates regarding the security situation in Lilu, Anambra State?
