The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has directed the closure of schools in the Nnewi zone for one week to prevent potential unrest during the burial of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
This decision follows an attack by gunmen in Nnewi on Wednesday evening, which resulted in several fatalities and a vehicle being set ablaze.
The incident, which occurred around 7:30 p.m., caused panic among residents, many of whom fled their homes.
In preparation for the burial set to take place on Friday in Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi, a circular issued by the state’s Commissioner for Education instructed school principals to close their schools until Tuesday.
Parents were also advised to keep their children at home for safety reasons.
The circular stated, “Try your best to find proper channels of reaching these students so they would not be found wandering on the streets with their school uniforms.”
Although speculation has arisen that the attack might be connected to the upcoming burial, the Anambra State Police Command has denied any such link.
Police spokesperson, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, clarified that the gunfire occurred as security operatives pursued a suspect.
According to Ikenga, “Unfortunately, bullets hit the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan carrying police personnel, causing it to catch fire. Two innocent bystanders were injured and are receiving medical attention.”
To ensure security during the funeral, the Joint Security Forces (JSF) have been deployed to Nnewi. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and reassured the public of a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Despite these assurances, the precautionary closure of schools highlights the government’s concern over rising tensions in the area.
