On Monday, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State distributed N185 million to over eleven families of security officers affected by an attack from unknown gunmen in September 2023. The incident, which resulted in casualties, burned vehicles, and other damages, occurred in Umualumaku community, Ehime Mbano Council area of Imo state. The presentation ceremony, organized by Uzodimma, was held at the Government House in Owerri, as reported by Oguike Neachukwu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
The names of the officers were given as “Those who died and were compensated include; Isaac Yakubu and Mr. Samson Edeh of NDELA; Ezeagu Emeka Tobias of NSCDC; Abraham Anas of Nigerian Air Force and Abas Ejiofor of the Nigerian Police. The injured officers include; Ibrahim Abubakar, Umeh Lawrence, Akwaraji Charles, Abubakar Haruna, Inspector Odukwe, Onyekachi Ndubuisi and others.”
At the time the incident happened, eyewitness from the community gave the number of affected security officers to be eight in number. Later, Security operatives said it was five officers. On the day of compensation of the deceased officers, the number of affected officers were more than eleven officers.
However, according to the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, “In an emotion laden voice, the Governor who remembered how the security agents put their lives on line to protect the citizens of the State not only prayed God to grant their various families the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss but also to grant the survivors quick recovery from the injuries they are currently nursing.
“The Governor emphasized that this occasion highlights the severity of insecurity in Imo State, going beyond public perception and revealing the profound problems and negative impact inflicted on the state.
“He acknowledged that this is not the first instance where the State Government has expressed gratitude to those who lost their lives or sustained injuries in the line of duty. The Governor assured that the government will continue to support the affected families and agencies, aiming to inspire them to fulfill their responsibilities without fear or discouragement.
“While recognizing that the Federal Government and Security Agencies have their compensation plans, the Governor viewed this as an opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of security agencies, including the Police, Army, Air Force, Navy, NDLEA, Civil Defence, and other Para-Military Agencies operating in Imo State.
“Governor Uzodimma then announced a financial aid package of N185 million for those affected. He offered prayers for the families, asking for the strength to bear the irreplaceable loss and for the souls of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country to rest in peace,” he expressed.
