Residents of the Afaraukwu area of Abia State capital, Umuahia, have scampered for safety and businesses owners have suddenly closed shop following heavy gunshots around the home of separatist leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) fame.

“The heavy gunshots were heard from about 5pm on Thursday,” A News Express Correspondent reported from the area.

He said it was unclear who was behind the shooting, and the purpose but added that “early Thursday morning, soldiers killed two young men suspected to be IPOB members.”

The shooting came shortly after Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, announced that soldiers would be withdrawn from the streets of Umuahia and the commercial hub Aba on Friday to reduce tension and the suffering of the people.

Briefing the press on the security situation in the state, Ikpeazu said he will be meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari to discuss the situation in Abia. He warned against street protests by any group.