The Coalition of South East Youth Leaders, COSEYL, has expressed sadness over the recent killing at Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State.

Operatives of the Anambra State environmental enforcement outfit, OCHA Brigade, reportedly opened fire in the market, killing some persons including a pregnant woman.

Reacting, COSEYL in a statement issued on Thursday by its President General Goodluck Ibem, slammed the state governor, Charles Soludo over the incident.

According to the group, the actions of the operatives “reveal an alarming disregard for human life and the rule of law”, stressing that such “reckless and barbaric conduct by any security agency, especially one claiming to operate for the safety and well-being of the citizens, is unacceptable”.

“COSEYL unequivocally passes a vote of no confidence on the administration of Governor Charles Soludo. His failure to ensure the safety and security of Anambra State residents under his watch is a clear indication of his inadequacy as a leader.

“The recent events paint a grim picture of a government that has lost control and direction, leading to fear and unrest among the very people it is sworn to protect.

“We call upon the good people of Anambra State to reflect deeply on the implications of these actions and to reject the current administration in the upcoming gubernatorial elections on November 8, 2025,” the statement added.

South-East youths knock Soludo over killing of pregnant woman, others in Ontisha market