Onitsha Sports Club Hit By Third Attack, Millions In Damages

By Chuks Eke

Onitsha, Anambra State: Barely a month after the second attack on Onitsha Sports Club, leaving parts of the perimeter fence demolished and valuables stolen, the club has been hit by yet another devastating attack, marking the third time in recent months.

The latest incident, which took place on Friday night between 12 midnight and 1 am, saw a group of about 30 individuals demolish further portions of the perimeter fence, pull down the main entrance gate, and destroy a giant billboard light. This leaves the club vulnerable despite the ongoing legal battle regarding the land ownership.

The attack has been attributed to members of the Ekwerekwu family of Onitsha, led by Harold Ekwerekwu, who has admitted responsibility for the previous two attacks, claiming they were reclaiming their land following the expiration of a 99-year lease agreement.

Club workers, Dan Oloshe, Okey Randof, and Chidera Ugwuoke, claim to have witnessed the attack and identified Harold Ekwerekwu as the leader of the group.

Chief Daniel Okafor, the club president, corroborated the eyewitness accounts and expressed disappointment at the continued violence despite assurances of protection from the state government, police, and the House of Assembly during a recent protest.

Chief Pius Nweke, a member of the club’s Board of Trustees, and Chief Ogoonna Ofoegbu, the club’s vice president, expressed concern over the actions of Harold Ekwerekwu, a lawyer who should be aware of the legal implications of defying court orders.

They emphasized the potentially criminal nature of the violent act and appealed to authorities for protection.

Former club captain, Chief Chidolue Obinna, and Hon. Ugochukwu Okafor, the president’s brother, expressed confidence that justice will prevail, highlighting the existence of a court order regarding the land dispute.

However, Harold Ekwerekwu, when contacted, denied any involvement in the latest attack, claiming he was unaware of the incident.

He acknowledged the ongoing legal dispute between the Ekwerekwu family and the club’s Board of Trustees.

The continued attacks on the Onitsha Sports Club have raised concerns about the effectiveness of legal measures and the protection offered by authorities.

The club’s members have expressed their determination to seek justice and ensure the safety of their facility.