‘Misleading’ — police refute report of herdsmen attack on Enugu community

The Enugu police command has refuted claims of herdsmen invasion of homes and schools in Eha-Amufu, Isi Uzo LGA of the state.

On Monday, it was reported that some suspected herdsmen invaded 44 farm settlements in Abor Ishala, Mgbuji, Agu-Amede, Eha-Agu, and Umuhu area of the state, forcing residents to flee their homes.

In a statement on Wednesday, Daniel Ndukwe, the police spokesperson in Enugu, described the reports “as baseless, and a calculated attempt to mislead the public”.

Ndukwe noted that no community in Eha-Amufu or any part of the state has been invaded, placed under siege, or had its residents displaced.

“The Enugu state police command is aware of a spurious online report alleging that herdsmen have overrun and occupied homes and schools in Eha-Amufu. After a diligent review, the command declares the report baseless, mischievous, and a calculated attempt to mislead the public and instill fear,” the statement reads.

“The pictures of burnt houses posted by Amnesty International in condemnation of the February 4, 2025, attack on the Nkalaeha community in a neighboring state were falsely misrepresented in the report as a recent occurrence in Eha-Amufu farm settlements.”

The police spokesperson said although there were reports of temporary displacement of farmers in these farm settlements in 2021 and 2022, peace and order have since returned to those communities.

He added that the images accompanying the claim were taken from old reports on incidents in neighboring states and other locations.

Ndukwe urged citizens, particularly those in the allegedly affected communities, to disregard the report, and to ensure they notify the police in the case of security concerns.

“Consequently, the commissioner of police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, urges the public to disregard this unfounded report,” Ndukwe added.

“He reaffirms the unwavering commitment of the Police and other security agencies to maintaining law, order, and security across the state.

“He calls on citizens, particularly those in the allegedly affected communities of Eha-Amufu in Isi-Uzo local government area, to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security agencies, and report any genuine security concerns through official channels.”