IPOB Attack: Anambra Man Recounts How His 88-Year-Old Father Was Brutally Murdered
Eziama, Nnokwa, Anambra State – A harrowing tale of loss and courage has emerged from Eziama Village, Nnokwa, in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State. Mr. Felix Gomado, a key intelligence informant, has narrated how his 88-year-old father was murdered in cold blood by suspected IPOB members.
According to Mr. Gomado, his late father, Mr. Osuagwu Emeka Godson, was once an active supporter of IPOB but withdrew after growing disillusioned with the group’s violent activities. The group, however, falsely accused him of accepting a bribe from the Nigerian government to betray the movement, which Mr. Gomado denies.
The tragic incident occurred on March 25, 2025, when heavily armed men believed to be IPOB militants invaded the family compound, opening fire indiscriminately, destroying property, and setting parts of the building ablaze. Mr. Gomado’s father, an elderly retiree known for his gentle disposition, was shot and left lifeless on the ground.
“It was the darkest night of my life,” Mr. Gomado told reporters. “They came shouting and firing. Before anyone could react, they had broken into our compound. My father, who could barely walk, was killed on the spot. He was a harmless old man who had never hurt anyone. They killed him based on a false accusation.”
A Son’s Quest for Justice
Mr. Gomado confirmed that he was not an informant initially. The brutal murder of his father was the catalyst that pushed him into action. “I never imagined that helping my country would cost me my father, but after they killed him, I swore I would not let his death be in vain,” he lamented. “I started working with the Nigerian military and police immediately after the attack to seek justice and bring the perpetrators to book.”
Since then, Mr. Gomado has been providing crucial intelligence to the authorities on IPOB operations in the region, which has helped foil several planned attacks and kidnappings. He believes the attack was a targeted retaliation against his family based on the false bribery accusation.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has long been accused of orchestrating violent attacks across the South-East under the guise of seeking independence for the defunct Biafran Republic. Mr. Gomado’s experience adds to a growing list of families shattered by the violence.
Calls for Justice and Protection
Mr. Gomado is appealing to both federal and state authorities to ensure that his father’s killers are brought to justice and to strengthen security in the South-East. “I’m calling on the government and security agencies not to let this case die in silence,” he urged. “My father deserves justice. Many families are living in fear because of these violent groups. The government must act decisively to restore peace.”
He also implored residents to cooperate with security operatives rather than shielding criminal elements, emphasizing that intelligence sharing is essential to ending insecurity in the region.
Community in Mourning
Since the attack, Eziama community has been plunged into mourning. Neighbours and friends have condemned the killing, describing the deceased as a humble and peace-loving man. Community leaders have likewise called on the government to increase security presence in Nnokwa and surrounding areas to prevent further loss of life.
