RULAAC Seeks Soludo’s Intervention in Isuaniocha Crisis

By Mary Obi

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), has urged Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo to take proactive measures towards restoration of peace, safety, and order in Isuaniocha Community, Awka North local government area of the state.

In a statement released Wednesday, RULAAC’s Executive Director, Mr. Okechukwu Nwanguma, highlighted an urgent appeal from a member of the Okoye family from Iffite Isu village. The family reported alarming criminal activities allegedly orchestrated by Mr. Anthony Onyeagolu, who is believed to be directing a group of armed assailants operating from a local site known as the “White House.”

The statement read: “These individuals have reportedly been terrorizing the Okoye family, attempting to disrupt their preparations for the burial of their late mother and daughter, scheduled for April 24, 2025.

“RULAAC has conveyed this information to the Anambra State authorities, advocating for immediate intervention and the deployment of appropriate security agencies to restore order and allow the bereaved family to mourn in peace”

Additionally, RULAAC reiterated its longstanding call for a thorough and impartial investigation to resolve the ongoing crisis in Isuaniocha.

A History of Turmoil

Troubles in the Isuaniocha community have attracted media attention since 2018, particularly following the kidnapping and murder of community youth leader, Angus Okoye. This tragic event escalated tensions and fueled demands for justice.

RULAAC has been closely monitoring the situation, which led to the eventual arrest of Anthony Onyeagolu, accused of masterminding the murder of Angus Okoye and a failed assassination attempt on Chidiebele Okoye, who survives but requires crutches for mobility.

Onyeagolu was apprehended on January 20, 2022, after evading arrest for two years due to alleged collusion with corrupt police officials.

After his arrest, attempts were made by Onyeagolu’s associates within the Administration section of the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja to distort the ongoing investigation and undermine justice. These efforts included an unlawful release from police custody right before his scheduled arraignment on murder charges, leading to his subsequent rearrest after community outcry.

Numerous petitions have surfaced, aimed at countering the false narratives surrounding the case and demanding accountability for the injustices faced by the Okoye family and the broader community.

In another worrying development, dubious charges have been filed against members of the victim’s family and local figures who have stood in solidarity with them. A questionable court order from Nasarawa State has even designated several innocent community members as “wanted” by the police, suggesting a concerted effort to silence dissent.

Community leaders recently brought to the Governor’s attention the resurgence of activities by Anthony Onyeagolu and his gang, coinciding with the state administration’s efforts to restore security in Anambra.

The state government had recently launched the Agunechemba security initiative, empowering community Presidents-General, like Mr. Paul Okoye of Isuaniocha, to report security concerns monthly.

Okoye reported ongoing criminal activities stemming from the “White House,” but his warnings went unheeded. Instead, the youth chairman, actively combating these threats, became a target himself and remains detained under questionable circumstances.

Community leaders were shocked to learn that while their youth chairman languished in detention after complying with an official invitation, Onyeagolu postponed his own meeting with the authorities. The apparent discrepancy has raised serious concerns about the fairness of the ongoing proceedings.

In a troubling twist, community leaders claim they were instructed by government officials to surrender their vigilante group’s weapons despite the increasing violence perpetrated by Onyeagolu’s gang. This disarmament has left them vulnerable, as the armed group continues to operate freely, instilling fear amongst residents.

The community is distressed that their efforts to maintain security and protect their rights have been undermined. They assert that the long-standing issues plaguing Isuaniocha highlight a systemic failure to ensure justice and protect the innocent.

An Urgent Appeal to the Governor

In light of these events, the Isuaniocha community appeals to Governor Soludo to ensure an impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the detention of their youth leader and to restore stability. They seek truth, fairness, equity, and justice, believing it is essential to end the chaos inflicted upon them.