Ifeanyi Uba: Tension mounts in South-East over attacks on politicians

The fatal attack on the convoy of Senator Ifeanyi Uba is the latest in the rounds of targeted attacks against politicians in the South-East region.

Uba survived the deadly attack on his convoy in Enugu-Ukwu; however, several other aides did not survive as many died from gun wounds.

While no one has claimed responsibility for the attack, the insecurity in the region has claimed numerous lives and properties, a development that is often blamed on the activities of separatists.

The activities of “Unknown Gunmen” have worsened the security situation, which has claimed several lives, including politicians.

Here are some politicians who have been attacked in the past few years

Ahmed Gulak

The Adamawa State-born politician was gunned down on May 30, 2021, along Imo State Airport Road.

The former aide to Goodluck Jonathan was a close ally of Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State.

Early this year, police arrested Anosike Chimobi, 38, from Umuedo, Ahiazu Mbaise council area of the State for allegedly killing Mr Gulak.

Obiora Agbasimalo

Agbasimalo, the governorship candidate of Labour Party at the last governorship election was abducted on September 18, 2021, along with his security detail on his way from Ezinifitte to Azia in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The candidate was unable to participate in the election and has remained missing till date.

Okechukwu Okoye

Mr Okoye, who represented Aguata Constituency 2 in the Anambra State House of Assembly and his campaign director, Cyril Chiegboka, were abducted in Aguata in May.

Days after the abduction, the head of Mr Okoye was dumped at a motor park in Amaechi, a community in Nnewi South Local Government Area of the State and his body was also found in Nnobi, Idemili South Local Government Area of the State.

Emeka Alaehobi

Emeka, a youth leader of All Progressives Grand Alliance was reportedly gun-down by unknown gunmen in Utuh, a community in Nnewi Local Government.

According to a media report, the deceased was kidnapped after his house was raided by gunmen. His body was subsequently dumped at Utuh junction.

He is one of the victims of the violence that has engulfed the southeast region.

Emeka Azubogu

In the buildup to the 2021 Anambra Governorship election, Mr Azubogu’s convoy was attacked by gunmen and his aide was killed in the attack.

According to reports, the aids were on their way to the airport to pick up the lawmaker.

Mr Azubogu represents Nnewi North/Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Federal Constituency.

Recall that these developments have created fear in the minds of residents despite re-assurances from the State Government.