The operatives of the Anambra State Government-backed OCHA brigade on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, allegedly opened fire at the ever-busy Onitsha Main Market, Emeka Offor Plaza axis, leaving four people that included a pregnant woman dead.
The reason for the gunshots which led to the killing of the three persons by the operatives of the OCHA Brigade could not be ascertained.
The development has fueled widespread anger, with critics accusing Governor Soludo of empowering groups they describe as “government thugs” to terrorize indigenes and residents of the state.
The unfortunate incident sparked anger, outrage and serious panic among traders and residents who quickly fled the scene and scampered for safety.
An eye witness told Forefront News that the victims, who had set out to earn their daily living, were shot by armed men allegedly working for the Governor Charles Soludo-led State government.
The OCHA Brigade, which has become known for its ruthless activities is being accused of routinely unleashing violence on residents under the guise of enforcement.
The eye witness who is a trader in the market said; “This is heartbreaking. Four innocent people who left their homes this morning have been cut down in cold blood and among them is a pregnant woman.
“Anambra people are now living in fear because criminals have been handed guns and uniforms in the name of enforcement by government,” he said.
one distraught trader lamented.
As of the time of this report, the Anambra State Government, the Nigeria police and the OCHA Brigade are yet to speak on the tragic incident.
