There is tension in the Hausa community in Imo State, following the arrest of six suspects by the police in connection with the foiled terror attack on a church in Owerri.
Most of the Hausa, it was learnt, had fled their homes and other locations where they usually converged, for fear of attack by youths, who see them as security threats.
Some of the deserted areas are Onitsha/Owerri Road and Mbaise Road, where Hausa petty traders and labourers stay.
Police spokesman Andrew Enwerem, who confirmed the arrest, said the suspects had not been linked to the bombs planted at the Winners’ Chapel in Owerri. He said the nationalities of the suspects would not be made public to avoid compromise.
There is panic in the state, as people avoid crowded public places.
Most television viewing centres, where football fans converge, were empty on Monday night during the Nigeria-Iran match.
Parents and guardians have reportedly withdrawn their children and wards from the Winners’ Chapel school located on the church premises.
