*Breaking: Suspected Bomb Explosion Rocks Umuneke, Obazu Mbieri*
By Ella Michaels
A devastating explosion occurred in Umuneke, Obazu Mbieri, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State, in the early hours of Sunday, January 12, 2025. Eyewitnesses report that a suspected drone was spotted hovering over Umuneke, Umunjam, and Amaulu in Ihitte Mbieri Autonomous Communities around 1:00 am. Shortly after, a massive explosion was heard, bringing down one building and damaging several others ¹.
The blast was felt over 2km away from the epicenter, leaving residents in a state of panic. Authorities quickly responded to the scene, with the DPO Mbieri Police Division, Supol Wet Ben, visiting the area. However, no official statement has been released regarding the cause of the explosion.
The anti-bomb unit of the Nigeria Police Force is expected to investigate the incident and determine its cause. Local leaders, including the Chairman of Mbaitoli Local Government Area, Hon. Ifunanya Nwanegwo, and the Secretary General of Obazu Autonomous Community, Hon. Emeka Nosiri, have urged residents to remain calm while the investigation is ongoing.
The Imo State Government, led by Governor Hope Uzodinma, is also expected to take action to address the situation. Mr. Emeka Arimanwa, President of the Udodiri Family Meeting, Umuneke Obazu Mbieri, has called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
