Tragedy Strikes as JSS1 Student, Nneoma Jennifer Okeh, Succumbs to Brutal Attack by Suspected Kidnappers
Tragedy Strikes Enugu Community as Deceased JSS1 Student, Laid to Rest Amidst Tears
Mary Nwaeze 
In a heart-wrenching incident, Nneoma Jennifer Okeh, a Junior Secondary School (JSS1) student of St. Paul’s College, Eke, in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, was brutally murdered by suspected Fulani herdsmen kidnappers. The young girl, who fell victim to the assailants, was laid to rest amidst tears, leaving a community in shock and mourning.
The tragic incident occurred last week Thursday when Nneoma and three other junior students were returning home to Egede along Eke-Affa road after school dismissal. The armed kidnappers, in pursuit, opened fire on the students, resulting in Nneoma's death. The other three survivors, still hospitalized since the attack, include two boys in JS2 classes and a JS3 student named Emmanuella, who, although not in critical condition, continue to recover from their injuries.
The Principal of St. Paul’s College, Rev Fr Frankline Eze, confirmed the burial of Nneoma and provided updates on the condition of the surviving students. He expressed concerns over the lack of information from the police regarding the incident. Rev Fr Eze also mentioned witnessing activity in the area, with bulldozers clearing bushes and local vigilantes patrolling the road.
Disturbingly, the incident involved the kidnapping of the Traditional Ruler of Affa community, HRH, Igwe Marius Ahamu. Fortunately, sources indicate that the monarch has been released, prompting jubilation in Affa community.
Community members and leaders lamented the ongoing kidnapping menace along the Eke-Egede-Affa road, emphasizing the vulnerability of the area, particularly at lonely sections. They pointed to Eke-Oghe road as another hotspot for criminal activities, expressing frustration over the security agencies' perceived inability to address the issue.
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According to a community leader, the Eke forests, spanning about 15 kilometers and known as Ofia-akwu, have become a notorious hub for criminal activities, specifically orchestrated by Fulani herdsmen involved in kidnapping. The community alleges that security agencies are aware of the situation but have struggled to flush out the criminals from the location.
Despite attempts to seek information from the Enugu State Police Command and Police Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, both remained silent on the matter.
The tragic incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures in the affected areas, as communities grapple with the persistent threat of kidnapping along major roads.
