Eight suspects arrested for burning NOUN centre, ex-senator’s home in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of eight suspects in connection with the arson attacks on the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) study centre and the home of Senator Frank Ibezim in Ezeoke Nsu, Ehime Mbano Local Council.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye confirmed the arrests in a WhatsApp message yesterday morning: “I am pleased to announce that over eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the arson incidents in Ehime Mbano. Investigations are ongoing. More details will be communicated in due course.”

The attacks have sparked outrage in the community, with residents protesting the proposed establishment of a skills acquisition centre on the NOUN premises.

Locals allege that the Director General of the National Refugee Commission, accompanied by Senator Ibezim and an aide to President Bola Tinubu, visited the site over a week ago to assess it for the establishment of a refugee camp for repentant terrorists, contradicting the government’s stated purpose.

Both the Imo State government and Ibezim have denied these allegations. Despite their denials, however, unidentified individuals attacked and set fire to both the NOUN study centre and Ibezim’s home last Monday.

Police investigations are ongoing.