The night was shattered by the sound of gunshots and chaos as a series of armed attacks unfolded in New kutunku.
Witnesses and victims recount the harrowing events that took place, describing the fear and confusion that gripped the community.
In this text, we delve into the first-hand accounts of individuals who experienced the terror firsthand, shedding light on the lack of police presence and the urgent need for enhanced security measures.
These accounts not only highlight the immediate impact of the attacks but also raise critical questions about the safety and protection of citizens in Nigeria.
In recent times, the safety and security of our Mohammed Sani street located at new Kutunku, Gwagwalada at large have become increasingly fragile. The harrowing experiences recounted by victims and eyewitnesses serve as grim reminders of the dangers lurking in our neighborhoods. One such incident took place during the late evening hours, when a gathering of individuals became engulfed in chaos and fear. Gunshots pierced the air, instigating panic and prompting desperate attempts to escape the clutches of armed assailants.
As the situation unfolded, lives were forever altered, valuable possessions were stolen, and the absence of timely police intervention cast doubt on the effectiveness of law enforcement. This account offers a glimpse into the haunting memories and urgent calls for improved security measures that echo throughout the affected region (Gwagwalada)
In the evening, between seven and eight o’clock, we were gathered when the sound of gunshots abruptly filled the air, originating from the road ahead. Chaos ensued as people scattered in all directions, gripped by panic. To our astonishment, a group of armed individuals emerged in front of my wife’s shop, their guns blazing and voices booming, demanding people’s phones. Sensing danger, I swiftly retreated inside, aware that it was a robbery. I made sure to turn off the projector, the primary source of light, to conceal any ongoing activities.
There were approximately four or five assailants, but I could clearly discern three of them brandishing weapons. They fired three shots at me, striking my arm and leg. In the midst of the commotion, they seized phones from unsuspecting victims.
Shockingly, one of them pursued my wife, relentlessly attempting to force entry into the shop’s toilet, where she had sought refuge. He repeatedly demanded her phone. They made off with phones and other valuables belonging to the people in the vicinity.
Regrettably, we observed a conspicuous absence of police presence throughout the entire incident. Later, I learned that they eventually arrived to retrieve the deceased’s body from the initial site of the attack. Although I personally did not witness their arrival, I was informed of it after being rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention.
I had the opportunity to speak with a victim and eyewitness who recounted the harrowing ordeal to chroniclereporters. They were in the midst of roasting fish when they suddenly noticed a group of individuals emerging from the opposite side of the road. Without warning, the assailants began firing shots and bellowing demands for people’s phones. They specifically targeted the witness’s business, indiscriminately firing at people and causing damage to their two establishments.
In a relentless pursuit of theft, they even chased customers, resulting in two individuals being shot. The witness’ husband sustained three gunshot wounds and required immediate hospitalization to extract the bullets. Faced with imminent danger, the witness sought refuge in a restroom, with their baby in tow. Astonishingly, the attackers followed, relentlessly demanding their phone. By the grace of God, they were spared from harm as the attackers did not gain entry.
Upon emerging from their hiding place, the aftermath revealed the extensive destruction caused by the barrage of bullets, exemplified by a chair riddled with bullet holes.
I am a resident of kutunku and my shop was the center of the robbery. At my open bar, I attended to customers while most of them enjoyed their drinks inside the hotel. Some patrons had their phones plugged in for charging. Suddenly, the tranquility was shattered by the sounds of gunfire, inciting pandemonium as the assailants dispersed, vanishing in different directions —left, right, and infiltrating various areas. Frantically, all my customers fled, seeking refuge behind the hotel or indoors. Before we could fully comprehend the situation, the attackers infiltrated the open bar, making off with all the phones that were being charged and other valuable items. Furthermore, they targeted a fish vendor, pilfering two phones and the vendor’s earnings, leaving empty bags behind.
In Nigeria, it is imperative to prioritize bolstering security measures. The individual they targeted held great significance within the community, selflessly contributing to the National Hospital and recently returning from an overseas trip. It is utterly disheartening to witness his untimely demise without any intervention from the police. Prompt responsiveness from our security forces is crucial to preserving lives, even if property protection remains a challenge.
This must be the focal point for Nigeria’s future leaders and appointed security personnel. Robust security measures must be established to grant people the peace of mind to sleep soundly in their homes, conduct business without fear, and walk the streets freely.
My shop is at old kutunku road, and during the incident, as I was attending to customers, one individual placed an order for a drink. Stepping inside the shop to fetch the beverages, the tranquility was disrupted by the sudden eruption of gunshots. Panic ensued as everyone instinctively sought safety, oblivious to the fact that someone had already fallen victim. Dr. Manasseh, who was seated nearby, tragically lost his life to the assailants’ bullets. We promptly reported the incident to the police, yet their response was frustratingly delayed and insufficient. Despite being present during the attack, the police took over an hour to arrive, citing a shortage of patrol cars for a swift response.
Eventually, they did arrive, conveying the deceased to the hospital, where his death was confirmed.
A reliable police officer disclosed to chronicles reporters that the Gwagwalada police force is currently bereft of patrol cars and lacks the necessary equipment to combat crime effectively. These officers are human beings who, understandably, are hesitant to jeopardize their lives for a job that fails to meet their needs or provide sufficient financial support. The incident at hand even involved police officers falling victim to robbery. The officer concluded by advising individuals to take personal measures to ensure their own safety if they are not part of the privileged elite, rather than solely relying on the Nigeria police force.”