Late-evening attack at Afor Market Junction, Nawfia, in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, left multiple persons dead on Sunday, after gunmen opened fire on residents and traders in a sudden burst of violence resulting in shockwaves through the community.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the busy market area and began shooting indiscriminately, leaving several victims with fatal gunshot injuries while others fled in panic.
A resident, described the terrifying scene, saying, “the armed hoodlums invaded Afor Market Junction and immediately opened fire, killing many people. Nobody knows the reason behind the attack; it has left our community shaken.”
Another added that, “it was chaos. The attackers came out of nowhere in a commando-like manner and started shooting indiscriminately.”
Video footage circulating online, captured terrified residents running in different directions for safety, as some victims were seen lying motionless in a pools of their blood.
Confirming the incident, the President-General of the Nawfia Progressive Union, Chief Daniel Okoye, expressed deep sorrow over the killings and called for calm.
“This evening, I received with deep shock, news of the tragic attack at Afor Market Junction in Nawfia community. The incident resulted in multiple casualties caused by unknown assailants.
“I strongly condemn this senseless act and the attempt to disrupt the peace of our community.
“I have contacted the relevant security agencies, and investigations are ongoing,” he said.
He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies.
“I urge all Ndi Nawfia to remain vigilant and cooperate with security operatives as they work to restore normalcy.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, and we remain committed to protecting lives and maintaining peace in Nawfia,” Okoye added.
Reacting to the incident, the Anambra State Police Command provided further details, describing the attack as part of a cult-related confrontation.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police, Ikenga Tochukwu, the incident occurred on December 7th, 2025, along the old Onitsha–Awka Road.
