Okigwe in Crisis: Governor Uzodimma’s Silence Amidst Rising Insecurity

Okigwe, a small peaceful town in Imo State, is gripped by fear and uncertainty following a series of alarming incidents. On July 10, 2025, approximately 40 shops were razed down along the Okigwe express roundabout in a suspected arson attack.

Eyewitnesses reported that individuals in police uniforms poured fuel on the shops and set them ablaze, with gunshots fired to scare away onlookers. The gunfire persisted until the next morning, resulting in millions of naira in losses.

Despite the town being heavily surveilled by security forces, including soldiers, none intervened to stop the arson or apprehend the perpetrators.

According to Ekwutosblog security presence only became apparent the following morning, when personnel surrounded the burnt shops, allegedly to prevent people from taking pictures.

This incident is the latest in a string of security breaches in Okigwe. Just weeks ago, armed men attacked villages around the town, killing 24 people, mostly returning from a wake-keeping.

The attacks have sparked widespread concern, with many believing that security agents are complicit in the violence.

Residents are now living in fear, with kidnappings, murders, and disappearances occurring daily. Despite the increased security presence, not a single kidnapper or killer has been arrested.

The people of Okigwe are crying out for answers, and the silence from Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration has only added to their frustration.

Questions linger: What is happening in Okigwe? Why has Governor Uzodimma remained silent on these incidents? And when will the people of Okigwe be safe again?