Aba Soldiers killing: Fear of reprisal attack causes panic among residents as many relocates

Four days after five soldiers were killed by unknown gunmen at Obikabia crossroads in Ogbor Hill, Aba, Abia State, residents of the city remain fearful of military reprisals.

Despite Governor Alex Otti’s warning during an expensive security conference with military authorities to go about their activities without fear of harassment, residents of Obikabia area have continued to relocate to other areas.

Others are still afraid of being arrested by the army.

Soldiers were alleged to have invaded some areas where they arrested some suspects. The soldiers also invaded Eziukwu and Ngwa road markets in the city and ordered traders to leave.

Some roads in Ogbor Hill area like Ehere, Umuola, Ukaegbu, Ururuka, New Umuahia and Obikabia roads have witnessed fewer traffic as residents have remained indoors.

However, the Aba main motor park has continued to witness beehive of activities, especially the Milverton Avenue area which is the hub of luxury bus business for passengers travelling to the North and Lagos areas. Residents of the Obikabia junction and environs have relocated to other areas

It was observed that soldiers have deserted all the military checkpoints located at Emelogu junction, Bata junction and Asa road.

It was also alleged passengers were being humiliated by soldiers who barricaded the Aro Ngwa, Umuikaa, Isiala Ngwa and Ntigha junctions along the Aba – Umuahia section of the Enugu – Port Harcourt expressway.

A motorist who gave his name as Sunny, stated that humiliation of passengers by soldiers has been stopped.

He said;”At the Aro Ngwa, Umuikaa, Isiala Ngwa and Ntigha junctions on the expressway, passengers are ordered to alight and raise their hands before passing the barricade. The Aro Ngwa junction was completely blocked, motorists passed through local routes. But the situation is gradually easing off except at Umuikaa junction where soldiers are still forcing passengers to raise hands. We condemn the killing of the 5 soldiers but the Army should ensure that innocent motorists should not be made to suffer for what they dont know.”

Efforts to get the reaction of the Public Relations Officer,14 Brigade,Ohafia, Lt. Innocent Omale, was unsuccessful as he did not respond to text message sent to his phone number.