The Imo State Police Command announced on Wednesday that more than eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the burning of the National Open University (NOUN) study center in Eze Oke Nsu, located in the Ehime Mbano Council Area of Imo State, which occurred last Tuesday.
Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, confirmed the arrests to newsmen in Owerri, stating, “I am pleased to announce that over eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the arson incidents in Ehime Mbano. Investigations are ongoing, and more details will be communicated in due course.”
This attack followed rumors circulating in the state that the NOUN center would be repurposed to accommodate Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The incident has heightened tension in the affected communities, with fears of potential further attacks.
A leader from the Nsu community, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons, advised that security agencies should establish checkpoints, especially on roads leading to the Ehime Mbano Council. “People in my community have not slept since Tuesday night. We are afraid. This kind of thing must be taken seriously,” he said.
Another community leader, a former President General, emphasized the need for security agencies to collaborate with local security outfits to ensure the safety of not only Nsu but all communities in the Ehime council area. “All of us must be vigilant and report suspicious activities, as this threat must be addressed for the good of our community,” he urged.