Imo State: The Deafening Silence Over Orsu Massacre and the call for accountability

The Deafening Silence Over Orsu Massacre and the call for accountability  In a society where lives are valued, a tragedy like the recent mas...

The Deafening Silence Over Orsu Massacre and the call for accountability 

In a society where lives are valued, a tragedy like the recent massacre in Orsu would prompt immediate action and a flood of responses from the government. However, the aftermath of the attack on four communities has been defined by silence. No press statement from the governor, no investigations announced by the police, and no reassurance from the army. It is as though the blood spilled and the lives lost are invisible to those in power.  

Instead of accountability, what we hear are accusations flying from different corners. Politicians, using their online foot soldiers, point fingers at Biafra sympathizers, while some in the media blame local criminal groups like Ekperima. This does nothing to comfort the grieving or bring justice to the innocent. It only deepens the wounds of a community already suffering.  

The silence from those elected to protect the people raises a painful question: *Do we even have a government?* What is their work if not to ensure the safety and security of the citizens? A government that watches its people slaughtered and does nothing is not fulfilling its mandate. This neglect is one of the key reasons why Biafrans demand a separate state—a place where they will feel a sense of belonging and where their lives will matter.  

A government is like the shepherd of a flock; when the wolves come, the shepherd must protect the sheep. Yet in Orsu, the shepherds have abandoned their post. Some suggest that the people of Orsu are killing themselves, but even if this were true God forbid is it not the government’s duty to intervene?  

The term "Unknown Gunmen" has become a lazy label, a way for the government to shrug off responsibility. But behind every gun is a finger, and behind every finger is a mind. It is the government’s job to find and hold accountable these minds that wreak havoc on innocent lives.  

This inaction creates a dangerous precedent. The enemy, whoever they are, is watching. They see a disorganized response, a fractured narrative, and a community left to fend for itself. This emboldens them.  

Consider a fire outbreak in a marketplace: if the fire service delays responding, the fire spreads. The same principle applies here. When the government fails to act swiftly after an attack, it sends a message that such acts can continue without consequence.  

Honest leadership requires swift and visible action. The governor must address the public and provide concrete steps to prevent further bloodshed. The police should be seen patrolling the affected areas, reassuring citizens that their safety is a priority. Community leaders must also rise to the occasion, demanding action and fostering unity to counter divisive narratives.  

The attack in Orsu should not fade into oblivion. A full investigation must begin immediately. The government must take responsibility and ensure justice for the victims. Communities must reject the narratives that absolve the government of its role in security.  

Orsu’s tragedy is not just Orsu’s burden; it is a stain on us all. Let us not wait for another massacre to demand change. Let the bloodshed in Orsu be the last.  

The time to act is now—or risk losing what little faith remains in the idea of governance.

Family Writers Press International