The Anambra State Government and the Police are still inexplicably silent over reports that unknown gunmen have warned residents of two communities that if any family allows more than 20 persons at a funeral, the family would be wiped out.
The communities, Isseke and Azia, both in Ihiala Local Government Area of the State, are part of the areas where armed gangs, operating under the banner of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or Eastern Security Network (ESN) are lords of the manor.
Also, security operatives would no longer be allowed in the area and that persons coming back for the burial of their deceased relatives, friends or associates must not come home with and member of the Nigerian defence or security forces.
The unknown gunmen warned at the weekend that any funeral ceremony with more than the stipulated number risked attacks.
A family was said to have buried the matriarch without relatives for fear of attacks from the armed gangs.
According to a source: “They warned that any family that dared them would be wiped out. We live in fear in this area, and many people have left the community for other areas.
“Only 20 persons attended the woman’s burial without in-laws, friends and associates. What it means is that if it’s a large family, the person’s sons and daughters will not come close.
“The family had to relocate to Onitsha to entertain guests because only 20 persons were allowed access to the burial place. It’s terrible and that’s the condition we have found ourselves in Anambra State.”