Governor Soludo Orders School Closures in Anambra’s Nnewi Zone Amid Security Concerns Ahead of Senator Ubah’s Burial
In a move aimed at safeguarding students and residents, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered a temporary closure of all schools within the Nnewi zone. This directive, effective for one week, is part of precautionary efforts to prevent potential violence surrounding the burial of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
The decision comes after recent unrest in the area, marked by an armed attack in Nnewi on Wednesday evening that left several people dead and a vehicle destroyed by fire. The attack, which took place around 7:30 p.m., triggered widespread panic and forced many residents to flee their homes, heightening concerns over public safety.
In preparation for Senator Ubah’s funeral, scheduled to take place on Friday in Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi, a directive was issued by the state’s Commissioner for Education. The circular advised school principals to close all institutions within the zone until the following Tuesday. Parents were also encouraged to keep their children at home to ensure their safety, with additional instructions urging schools to notify students through any available channels, discouraging them from wearing school uniforms in public during this period.
The Anambra Police Command, meanwhile, sought to dispel rumors suggesting that non-state actors might be targeting the burial event. According to Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, the recent violence in Nnewi was unrelated to the upcoming funeral. Ikenga clarified that security forces were tracking a suspect when a firefight broke out, during which bullets inadvertently struck the fuel tank of a police vehicle, setting it ablaze. Two innocent bystanders sustained injuries during the incident and are currently receiving medical treatment.
In response to the incident and the heightened tensions, the Joint Security Forces (JSF) have been deployed throughout Nnewi to maintain order during the funeral proceedings. The police assured the public that they are fully committed to investigating the attack and have encouraged residents to stay calm.
Although the government and security agencies are actively working to ensure peace, the closure of schools reflects a cautious approach by the state government to protect the well-being of Anambra’s students and residents during this sensitive period.
