Gunmen attacked lodges near Total petrol station in Oko, Anambra State, on the evening of Thursday, June 19, resulting in multiple deaths and an unknown number of kidnappings. Students from Federal Polytechnic Oko recorded the incident, showing the two cars used by the attackers and expressing fear for their lives.
Videos from the scene depict numerous individuals shot, some fatally and others in pain, with no one able to offer immediate medical aid due to ongoing gunfire. One victim was identified as a local barbecue vendor. There are unconfirmed reports that some lecturers were among those abducted.
The motive for the attack is speculated to be linked to a newly established checkpoint near the Total petrol station by the "Operation Udo Ga Achi" security outfit, adding to existing checkpoints in the vicinity. However, it remains unclear how this led to the violence or who precisely is responsible.
