Military, DSS, Police Storm ESN Camp in Anambra
Achalla community in Awka north of Anambra state in shock as security forces dismantle Eastern Security Network base; several members declared wanted, including university lecturer.
The Nigerian Military, Department of State Services (DSS), Police, and Joint Task Force have raided and dismantled an Eastern Security Network (ESN) camp in Achalla, Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The operation, which took residents of the community by surprise, has left many in shock and fear. According to an eyewitness who spoke to our correspondent under anonymity, the community has been unsettled since the security forces stormed the village and destroyed the ESN camp.
The eyewitness noted that members of the ESN had been protecting the community from Fulani herdsmen, who were accused of destroying farmlands and harassing women. Following the destruction of the camp, farmers in Achalla are said to be afraid of returning to their farms , fearing renewed attacks, as those who previously defended the community have now been dispersed.
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Allegations also surfaced that Dr. Nelson Okonkwo, a lecturer at Anambra State University and PhD holder, has become a major target of government forces for refusing to dismantle the camp despite directives from both state and federal authorities. Community members claim he played a significant role in providing hope and encouragement for farming activities, which remain the main source of livelihood in the area.
Reports indicate that several ESN members, including Dr. Nelson Okonkwo, Emma Okigbo, Agboka Chidi, Ubi Johnson and many others have now been declared wanted by security agencies.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the group was operating against government policy. He vowed that those involved would be apprehended and brought to justice, “no matter what it takes.”
