A wave of grief and anger has swept Nigeria’s southeast following a horrific attack that claimed the lives of 30 travelers on a major highway. According to Amnesty International, gunmen ambushed a convoy late Thursday, targeting passengers in a region plagued by separatist unrest and criminal gangs. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos, with vehicles riddled with bullets and families fleeing into nearby forests. “It was like a nightmare,” said Chika Okeke, a survivor, speaking to local media. “We thought we were safe on that road.”
The attack, one of the deadliest in recent months, has reignited debates over Nigeria’s security crisis. The southeast, home to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement, has seen escalating violence, though no group has claimed responsibility. Local authorities pledged a swift response, with Enugu’s governor announcing increased patrols and a task force to track the perpetrators. However, residents voiced frustration on X, with hashtags like #EndSoutheastViolence trending. “How many more must die before the government acts?” posted by a X user.
Analysts point to poverty, unemployment, and ethnic tensions as drivers of the unrest, urging federal reforms. The United Nations condemned the attack, calling for dialogue to address root causes. Meanwhile, families of the victims are demanding justice, with community leaders organizing vigils to honor the deceased. The incident has also raised concerns about travel safety, with advisories issued for major highways.
Nuzpost will continue to follow this tragedy, exploring its implications for Nigeria’s stability and the government’s response. As the nation mourns, the world watches to see if this latest violence will spur meaningful change or deepen the region’s divisions.
