Iggah community in Uzo Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State is experiencing a crisis, with reports indicating that houses and shops have been burnt, and three people, including a police officer, have been killed. The cause of the crisis is not yet clear, but a video from the community suggests that the military and police may be involved in setting properties on fire.
According to reports, the crisis started when Adani community allegedly sold Ada Rice farmland, some of which belonged to Iggah, Ojor, Adani communities, and Omasi in Anambra State, without the permission of the other co-owners. When Iggah community stakeholders questioned this action, a land speculator from Adani reportedly mobilized policemen in mufti and mercenaries from a neighboring state to attack Iggah. During the altercation, a policeman allegedly shot an Iggah man, escalating the crisis.
In retaliation, the police, along with soldiers, reportedly ransacked the community, destroying and burning property, including the Ada Rice farmland settlement. Sadly, a farmer in the settlement reportedly collapsed and died from shock upon learning of his destroyed farm.
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and the Commissioner of Police have reportedly visited the scene to assess the situation. However, unconfirmed reports suggest that despite the presence of the police boss, some officers continued to shoot, destroy, and loot property belonging to Iggah people. The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore peace and investigate the root causes of the conflict.
