Security forces, including soldiers, police, and personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), allegedly attacked thousands of women protesting against herdsmen killings in Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Reports indicate that the security personnel were deployed on the orders of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, which allegedly sought to downplay reports of insecurity in the state.
Tensions escalated after the protesting women apprehended two individuals suspected of coordinating herdsmen attacks in the area.
While one suspect escaped, the other was paraded through the community.
In response, authorities dispatched security operatives, who confronted the demonstrators.
According to Mrs. Regina Odoh, a protest leader, the security agents initially blocked their march at Eke Market.
When the women regrouped and returned in greater numbers, security forces responded with live gunfire and tear gas.
The protesters, accusing the forces of aiding herdsmen atrocities, retaliated with stones and sticks. In the ensuing chaos, four women were shot, and several others sustained injuries.
Videos from the protest show women denouncing local government officials, alleging that they were downplaying the severity of herdsmen attacks and suppressing their voices instead of addressing the crisis.