The recent bomb explosion that shattered a house under construction at Mbieri, in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, has once again highlighted the frightening level of insecurity in the State that seems to have defied all solutions.
The explosion which has elicited confusion, fear and anxiety among residents of the area has also raised many questions that are yet to be answered or addressed in concrete terms by those in authority and others whose responsibility it is to ensure the protection of lives and property of Imo people.
A community source who spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity, said, “before the bomb explosion, we sighted an aeroplane hovering in the sky as if it was on surveillance but did not attach much importance to it. But surprisingly, a few hours later a terrible bomb explosion shattered the peaceful atmosphere and wreaked havoc on a very magnificent house that was nearing completion”.
The source, like others who spoke in different interviews, wondered why such a thing should happen in Imo State. More so, in Mbieri community that is less than 20 minutes drive from the headquarters of the Imo State Police Command, the Directorate of State Service (SSS) the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
“Another intriguing question is, where did the aeroplane take off from and where did it book as its destination? Did it not land and take off from the Imo Airport. What actually transpired, and why has there not been an official statement about such a devastating incident by those who should give explanations, particularly, the bomb disposal unit of the Imo State Police Command ”.
A cross section of Imo people who commented on the development which they described as saddening are of the opinion that if such incident could happen at Mbieri community that is a stone throw from the state capital where most of the security agencies stay, then all those building mansions in their respective villages and communities should be very careful.
They also noted that the latest incident is far beyond the scope of the IPOB, ESN and the unknown gunmen who are often accused of masterminding insecurity in the state because they cannot afford an airplane for such operation, except they are sponsored by highly placed individuals.
“There is therefore a need for thorough investigation to unravel the mystery behind the bomb explosion, as a first step towards preventing future occurrences that will further project the state and its leadership in very bad light.”
“We recall a similar incident that occured when the Owerri Correctional Center that shares a fence with the headquarters of the Imo State Police Command and also less than 20 minutes drive to the 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, where over 1000 soldiers of all cadres stay, was broken into some years ago without qualms. The scenario has regrettably played out again and it is very unfortunate.That is why concrete steps should be taken by all concerned to unravel the mystery and bring the culprits to book. This will serve as a deterrent and at same time restore the confidence of the people who have already given up on the security apparatus in the state”.
