Tragedy struck in Imo State on Monday when unidentified gunmen ambushed and opened fire on the convoy of His Royal Majesty Eze Dr. Emma Ike Uba, the traditional ruler of Umuezeala-Ama Autonomous Community in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area.
The violent attack, which occurred at Nsu Junction in the same LGA, claimed the life of one of the monarch’s security aides, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
According to eyewitness accounts, the royal father and his convoy were returning from a peace and security meeting organized for traditional rulers in the area when they were intercepted by the armed assailants. The security aide reportedly died on the spot after being shot multiple times.
The attackers, whose identities remain unknown, fled the scene immediately after the shooting, leaving behind a trail of chaos and grief.
A source close to the palace, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, confirmed the attack and the tragic loss of the security personnel. “We are still in shock. His Majesty was coming back from a peace meeting meant to strengthen security in the region. This is both painful and ironic,” the source said.
Meanwhile, law enforcement authorities have launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, vowing to apprehend those responsible for the heinous crime.
The Imo State Police Command has yet to release an official statement as of the time of filing this report.
This latest attack adds to growing concerns over the rising insecurity in the South-East region, particularly targeting traditional rulers and public figures.
