Former MP’s Residence, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Study Centre Set On Fire – News Images
Monday night witnessed a series of dastardly acts in Ezeoke-Nsu area of Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Nigeria. Suspected individuals, still at large, set ablaze the residence of former MP, Senator Frank Ibezim, as well as facilities of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Study Centre located in the same area.
The attacks came after a viral video went viral, suggesting that the Federal Government was planning to renovate the NOUN facility as a training centre for repentant Boko Haram members. This video is a follow-up to a recent inspection visit by the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, Tijani Mohammed, to the National Training Centre for Vulnerable Persons, located inside the NOUN Study Centre.
A resident of the community, speaking anonymously, noted that the incident took place around 9pm on Monday. He expressed fears that the attacks could be linked to the false information that repentant insurgents could be relocated and trained at the NOUN facilities.
It is unfortunate to note the destruction of the NOUN buildings by these suspected arsonists. Indeed, the centre also housed the Ezeoke Girls Secondary School, which had a boarding facility. With the loss of the buildings, the community has lost its only boarding school and a critical NOUN infrastructure in the area.
The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, described the acts as barbaric and condemnable. He deployed the tactical unit of the command to identify and apprehend those responsible for the acts. The response of the authorities shows a determination to end this cycle of violence that is jeopardizing the security of the local population.
Finally, the Commissioner warned against the dissemination of false information or inflammatory statements that could disrupt the current peace in the state. Any individual found guilty of spreading false news will be held accountable by the relevant authorities.
These events underscore the need to preserve peace and security in the area, while highlighting the challenges facing the community. The authorities will have to redouble their efforts to ensure the safety of all and prosecute those who sow trouble and discord.