Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has confirmed the killing of a councillor by gunmen during Saturday’s governorship election in the state.
Bellnews reports that the deceased, identified as the councillor representing Owerre Ezukala community in Orumba South Local Government Area, was shot dead while attempting to cast his vote.
The tragic incident occurred at Owerre Ezukala Ward 1, as gunmen stormed the voting centre, causing panic before opening fire on the councillor.
He was said to have been targeted shortly after casting his vote and was making his way home when the attackers accosted and shot him.
Speaking moments after he was declared the winner of the governorship poll, Soludo confirmed the killing and described it as a painful loss for the state and the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
He said, “I also note with sadness the sad news that some hoodlums went to a community.
“We understand they came from across the border, caused mayhem and even killed one of our supporters, a councillor who had just voted and was heading home. They accosted him and shot him dead. That’s a councillor and an APGA chieftain. It’s very unfortunate. May his soul rest in peace.”
Despite the incident, Soludo praised security operatives for preventing wider disruptions during the election.
He said security agencies “did an excellent job” in containing the threats and stopping those who attempted to undermine the electoral process.