By G9ija
Residents of Ebonyi State capital, Abakaliki, are in fear over tales of gunmen invasion that sent locals fleeing for their safety on Monday.
When word spread of the gunmen invasion allegedly enforcing the five-day sit-at-home call issued by pro-separatist groups in the southeast, locals fled for safety.
It was claimed that Simon Ekpa, a resident of Finland, had announced the sit-at-home protest, which was refuted by Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The incident caused a rucus in the city, forcing merchants to close their stores and go home.
Others sought shelter in hotels and other buildings they could find out of dread of coming across the gunmen.
Ababaliki was fully deserted as citizens scampered for safety while thousands of traders abruptly closed their shops for fear of being killed.
An eyewitness, Chidebere, said the gunmen invaded Ahia-Ohuru market and started shooting sporadically to scare people away.
According to him: “People who were around saw the unknown gunmen who rode on two motorcycles, with guns. They were shooting anyhow to scare people away. They even burnt down a shop belonging to a woman. They saw the woman bringing her goods outside, they met her and told her to close the shop.
“The woman was asking them, what offense did she commit? Before you knew it, they poured fuel on the shop and set it ablaze. They were four in number.”
A source, who pleaded anonymity said he had to run into a hotel to take refuge.
“I am taking refuge in a hotel now. I went to buy recharge card opposite government house when I saw people running.”
Videos and pictures seen on social media showed people running in different directions.
Another source said he had to run to a friend’s house for safety on hearing gunshots.
“I am also taking refuge at my friend’s abode. I ran from site(mechanic village), just before Spera-in-doe junction, I heard gunshots and people were running for safety. I managed to get to Agwu street from convent road”, the source said.
