Three People Beheaded As Ebonyi Communities Clash Over Land

The Ebonyi State Police Command has confirmed that three people were beheaded and another later died from injuries following a violent clash between communities in Edda Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson Joshua Ukandu told reporters on Saturday that the attack happened on January 29 in Okporojọr village, located in Oso Edda community.

According to him, the assault was allegedly carried out by individuals from Ndukwe community in Amasiri, Afikpo LGA.

Ukandu said three victims were killed and beheaded during the attack, while a fourth person who was injured later died in hospital.

He added that several mud houses were set on fire, a church building was damaged, and harvested rice was destroyed.

Ukandu said the violence is linked to a long-standing land dispute between Okporojọr village and the Ndukwe community.

“Upon receipt of the report, the commissioner of police immediately ordered the massive deployment of the command tactical squads and PMF unit to the affected area,” he said.

“The deployed personnel have since taken control of the situation and restored calm and normalcy.

“While addressing members of the community, CP Adaku Uche-Anya commiserated with the people of Okporojọr village over the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property.

“She assured them of the command’s commitment to ensuring justice and disclosed that ten (10) suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.

“She emphasised that investigations are ongoing and that the command will not relent until all those involved are brought to justice.

“The CP further assured the community that the security deployment already in place will be sustained until the situation is fully resolved.

“She reiterated her appeal, while visiting local government areas, against resorting to self-help and taking the law into one’s hands.”

Reacting in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, Governor Francis Nwifuru condemned the attack, describing the incident as brutal and unacceptable.

He said, “I received with shock, news of the recent attack on Oso community which claimed lives and led to destruction of properties.

“This act of callousness is a direct affront on our commitment to restore peace in our communities and we cannot tolerate it.

“The security of lives and properties is of utmost importance for us as a government and no effort will be spared in getting to the root of this matter.”

The governor directed security agencies to carry out a full investigation and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

“I appeal to the affected community not to engage in reprisals. Law enforcement agents should take swift actions and mobilise fully to the area, to forestall re-occurrence or reprisals.

“My prayers and thoughts are with the families who lost their loved ones and properties in the unfortunate incident,” he said.

Nwifuru added that lasting development cannot happen in an environment filled with violence and destruction, encouraging all communities in the state to live peacefully with one another.

“No development will thrive in an atmosphere of violence and destruction,” he said.

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