Anambra Church Attack: What Happened in Lilu Community
Armed Men Invade St. Andrews Anglican Church
Armed assailants launched an attack on St. Andrews Anglican Church, Isiokwe, in Lilu community, Ihiala LGA of Anambra State, in the early hours of Sunday. The assault left two people dead, including the wife of the church priest, and caused significant destruction to properties within the church compound.
Residents described the scene as deserted when visited on Monday, with scattered belongings and damaged structures showing the extent of the assault.
Witnesses Describe How the Attack Unfolded
Early-Morning Raid During Sunday Preparations
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers stormed the premises as worshippers were preparing for early Sunday activities. They began firing shots and setting structures ablaze, leading to chaos and panic in the area.
Properties Burnt and Buildings Destroyed
The attackers reportedly destroyed several items on the premises, including:
The priest’s residential apartment
Church vehicles
Sections of the main church building
Other items belonging to the congregation
Community members say the incident has left them traumatized, noting that such violence on a worship day is particularly devastating.
Police Confirm Attack, Launch Intensified Operations
The spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident on Monday. He stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has condemned the attack “in the strongest terms,” describing it as an assault on peace, life, and freedom of worship.
Statement from the Commissioner of Police
According to the CP:
One confirmed fatality has been recorded
Several people sustained serious injuries
A portion of the church building was affected
Security has been tightened in the surrounding areas
He assured residents that the perpetrators will be tracked down, emphasizing that the command will not allow criminals to destabilize the state.
Increased Security Presence in Lilu and Surrounding Areas
The police have deployed joined security teams and strengthened surveillance across Ihiala LGA. Ikenga added that officers are following all leads and urged residents to cooperate by providing credible information to aid investigations.
Lilu, a border community between Anambra and Imo states, has faced several security threats in recent months. Residents say the area has been under pressure from armed groups, making Sunday’s incident another troubling reminder of the insecurity affecting border regions.
.
