Soludo Orders School Closures in Anambra Ahead of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah’s Burial

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In response to escalating tensions and potential security threats, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has directed the closure of schools in the Nnewi area for a week. The directive comes ahead of the burial of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, scheduled for Friday in Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi.

Rising Concerns Over Violence

The precautionary measure follows threats from non-state actors who warned of disruptions if certain unresolved issues surrounding the burial were not addressed. The situation worsened on Wednesday night when gunmen attacked Nnewi, resulting in multiple deaths and the torching of a vehicle.

The attack, which occurred around 7:30 p.m., left residents in panic, with many fleeing their homes.

Official Notice to Schools and Parents

The Anambra State government issued a circular on Thursday, instructing all schools in the Nnewi zone to shut down until Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Parents were also urged to keep their children at home to ensure their safety.

The circular read:

> “Good morning Parents, please the above information is from the Commissioner of Education. Day students should not come to school till Tuesday next week.

“Good evening Noble Principals! I am directed to inform you to close all schools in Nnewi Zone on Thursday 21/11/2024 and Friday 22/11/2024.

“Please circulate this information on your school WhatsApp groups and inform parents. Try your best to find proper channels of reaching these students so that they would not be found wandering on the streets with their school uniforms. Remain blessed and stay safe!”



Police Response to the Situation

The Anambra State Police Command has denied claims that the recent violence is linked to Senator Ubah’s burial. Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, clarified in a statement that the attack was unrelated to the burial, attributing the incident to a confrontation at a security checkpoint.

Ikenga explained:

> “Preliminary investigations reveal that the security operatives were trailing a suspect when the gun duel ensued at a security checkpoint. Unfortunately, bullets hit the fuel tank of a Toyota Venza Sedan carrying the police personnel, causing it to catch fire. Two innocent bystanders were injured in the crossfire and are currently receiving medical attention.”



To ensure safety during the burial ceremonies, the Joint Security Forces (JSF) have been deployed to Nnewi. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and allow investigations to proceed.


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