Soludo condemns killing of US officials, asks residents to identify perpetrators

Charles Soludo, governor of Anambra, has condemned the attack on the convoy of the United States consulate on a “humanitarian mission” in the state.

A convoy conveying officials of the US consulate was on Tuesday attacked by gunmen in Ogbaru LGA of the state.

According to a statement by Christian Aburime, chief press secretary to the governor, Soludo described the incident as a heinous and unprovoked attack.

He said the government has over the past year, worked toward ensuring the safety of residents in the state.

He asked residents to report information about the identity or whereabouts of the perpetrators to the security agencies, adding that such persons would be rewarded.

“On behalf of the government and great people of Anambra state, the governor, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, expresses deep condolences to the bereaved families and organisations, particularly the US Embassy, over the death of their staff and policemen who were attacked by gunmen along Atani-Osamala road, Ogbaru local government area on Tuesday, 16th of May 2023 while they were on a mission in Anambra state,” the statement reads.

“We strongly condemn the heinous and unprovoked attack. Over the last one year, we have worked very hard with our gallant security forces to massively degrade criminality and restore law and order. We can proudly assert that Anambra is currently one of the safest states in Nigeria.

“Only two weeks ago, the dreaded and notorious criminal gang leader operating mostly in a neighbouring state was gunned down with four of his team members when they made an incursion into Anambra and recovered huge deadly weapons. The criminals are largely on the run or feeling the heat of our zero tolerance to criminality.

“This incident in a remote riverine community in Ogbaru local government is a reminder that patches of these criminal gangs can still unleash senseless and murderous acts.

“Whatever the identity or motive of the attackers, Anambra state government will actively work with the security agencies to smoke out the criminals and bring them to justice.”

The governor said the visiting team made arrangements for their security, adding that the government was not aware of their “humanitarian mission” in the state.

“We call on anyone with information on the identity or whereabouts of the criminals to offer same on our secured security phone numbers or to any of the security agencies and such informant will be handsomely rewarded. Investigations are underway,” he added.

“We assure our residents and visitors of our continued commitment to law and order. If anything, this incident has emboldened our drive.”