Soldiers Turn Back Fleeing Residents In Anambra

There is apprehension in Enugu as relatives of fleeing residents of Anambra State are allegedly being turned back to their abodes by security operatives.

Those affected were said to be returning to Awkunanaw, Enugu South LGA, from Nnewi in the aftermath of the sit-at-home order by the Indigenous People of Biafra due to begin on Friday.

iPOB however, on Thursday evening, cancelled the order and asked Anambra residents to go out en masse and cast their vote on November 6.

Despite the belated cancellation of the order, people are moving out of Anambra State in droves.

Cajetan Ikpa told THE WHISTLER that, “My sister and her family who were returning to Enugu for refuge just informed us that security operatives have turned them back.

“I am surprised because we have freedom of movement in Nigeria. When the government cannot secure her citizens, can’t citizens seek safety elsewhere? They have refused my people to seek refuge.”

Meanwhile, there are gridlocks across major roads in Enugu metropolis. Motorists were seen leaving the metropolis with their families. Some however were returning from the north to the state.

Charles Ossai said “I want to return to my village for safety. Nothing is guaranteed right now. Security operatives guarding Anambra are strange. They call us funny names like enya muri.”

An Abuja returnee, Sam Okeke, said, “I have some functions to perform this weekend. It’s likely that no regular transport companies will be coming to East in the next one week.

“That’s why I am back home. It has not been easy driving past into Enugu because of gridlocks. Things are simply bad.”