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The management of Onitsha Sports Club in Anambra State has called on the authorities to investigate an alleged attack on its premises, during which valuables estimated at more than ₦500 million were reportedly stolen or destroyed.
The club’s secretary, Toochukwu Chidobelu, disclosed the incident while addressing journalists alongside the club’s president, Titus Adirika, and other officials. He alleged that a group of suspected hoodlums, accompanied by police officers, entered the facility on Monday evening and remained there until midnight.
According to Chidobelu, the incident occurred amid an ongoing dispute over ownership of the property. He claimed that some individuals seeking control of the premises had attempted to remove the club from the location despite the matter still being before a court.
The club secretary said the attackers allegedly removed several items from the facility, including television sets, solar-powered lights and other valuables. He described the incident as a serious disruption to the club, which has served as a recreational centre for members and prominent residents over the years.
Chidobelu further alleged that the men who accompanied the group claimed to be officers of the Police Intelligence Response Team from Abuja and said they were acting on a court order to vacate the premises. However, he maintained that the document was not presented when requested.
He also accused the police of failing to intervene after the club alerted the Onitsha Area Command and the Central Police Station. According to him, some members sustained injuries during the confrontation, while others reportedly required hospital treatment following alleged beatings and exposure to tear gas. Several vehicles were also said to have been damaged.
The club’s leadership appealed to the Federal Government, the Anambra State Government and relevant security agencies to intervene, investigate the allegations and prevent further escalation of the dispute.
Reacting to inquiries about the incident, the Anambra State Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said he was not aware of the development. Attempts to obtain comments from the individuals accused of involvement were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
