Rights Groups Probe Alleged Army Invasion, House Burnings in Enugu Community

Our Reporter 

Human rights advocacy group, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) and Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), South-East Zone, have launched an investigation into the reported invasion and burning of civilian houses in Imezi-Owa Community in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Enugu, the groups said their probe would focus on the circumstances surrounding the incident, which reportedly began on May 6, 2026, and allegedly involved personnel linked to the Nigerian Army.

The organizations stated that thier investigation followed a review of official statements issued by the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, media reports, social media videos and photographs, as well as independent accounts surrounding the incident.

According to the groups, a six-member team of field investigators arrived in Ezeagu on Tuesday, May 12, to conduct what they described as a detailed and unbiased inquiry into the events.

The investigators are expected to determine the identities of owners of houses allegedly burnt or destroyed, establish the locations and timelines of the incidents, and ascertain the circumstances under which the properties were razed.

The groups also said they would investigate the immediate and underlying causes of the incident, including allegations regarding the possible involvement of the Eastern Security Network and claims of external instigation.

They further stated that issues surrounding the alleged involvement of suspected armed groups and other actors would form part of the inquiry.

The statement was signed by Emeka Umeagbalasi on behalf of Intersociety and Aloysius Emeka Attah for the South-East CLO.