From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
A coordinated attack on the Muslim community in Umunede, Delta State, has destroyed properties worth an estimated N35 million.
The attack, which took place on the evening of Tuesday, left 14 people with injuries, while others fled to neighbouring communities in Edo State and nearby villages for safety.
According to Alhaji Ashiru Umar, the youth leader of the Muslim community, the incident occurred while members of the community were observing the Isha prayer.
In a phone interview with Triumph correspondent in Calabar, he alleged that a group of armed individuals disguised in volunteer force uniforms, known as ‘Yannsintiri,’ stormed the community, wreaking havoc.
“While we were praying, they started shooting sporadically, leaving two people with gunshot wounds,” Umar stated. “To the best of our knowledge, we did not quarrel with anyone in the community. We have lived here for over 30 years, and such an incident has never happened before. Our properties, including the mosque, were vandalized and set on fire, forcing us to flee for our lives.”
The youth leader further revealed that the attack was reported to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Umunede, as well as the local security authorities. Although security personnel were later deployed to the area, many members of the affected community had already been displaced.
Confirming the attack, human rights activist Nura Kanya described the incident as a serious assault on Northerners residing in Umunede. He noted that although no lives were lost, businesses and residences belonging to the victims were destroyed.
“The government and well-meaning individuals should come to their aid,” Kanya appealed. “Life has become extremely difficult for them, as they have lost their homes and means of livelihood.”
Authorities in Delta State are yet to issue an official statement on the attack, but community leaders and human rights groups are calling for a thorough investigation and immediate intervention to prevent further escalation of violence.
