Amnesty International has strongly condemned the brutal attack on travelers along the Okigwe-Owerri Road in Imo State on 8 May 2025, which left at least 30 people dead and more than 20 vehicles—including commuter buses and trucks—burned.
The assault, allegedly carried out by gunmen linked to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its Eastern Security Network (ESN), demonstrated what Amnesty described as a “callous disregard for the sanctity of life.” The attackers reportedly positioned themselves along the highway and in parts of Umuna, Onuimo Local Government Area, before unleashing widespread violence.
Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to launch an immediate, transparent investigation and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The organization emphasized that under international law, the government is obligated to investigate unlawful killings and prosecute perpetrators.
The rights group also urged all armed factions operating in southeast Nigeria to end their campaign of unlawful killings and violence.
