Insecurity
Gunmen Kidnapped, Kill Imo Monarch
The monarch’s remains were discovered on the roadside in Mbutu community
Owerri, Imo State– The traditional ruler of the Otulu community in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo state, His Royal Highness (HRH) Eze Joe Ochulor, have been killed by unknown gunmen.
It was gathered that the monarch was kidnapped by unidentified gunmen on Saturday morning, November 25, 2023, in an incident that has left the community in mourning.
A source revealed that on Sunday the monarch’s remains were discovered on the roadside in Mbutu community, located in the adjacent Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, during Saturday night.
“The traditional ruler of Otulu community in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State has been killed. The lifeless body of the king was found on the roadside at Mbutu community in Aboh Mbaise LGA on Saturday night. He was abducted from his palace on Saturday morning,” the source said.
“There is fear everywhere. Villagers are afraid because the traditional ruler was taken from his home on Saturday morning only for his lifeless body to be found on the same Saturday. This is horrifying.”
Henry Okoye, the state police spokesperson, confirmed the monarch’s murder and assured the public that the police command would apprehend the suspects.
Okoye said the State Commissioner of Police had declared a manhunt for the killers of the traditional ruler.
“The story is true. It is an unfortunate circumstance but the state Commissioner of Police has declared the suspects wanted. We are on the trail of the suspects and we are doing everything possible to close in on the suspects and bring them to book.
“The command is open to anybody with useful information that will lead to the swift arrest of the suspects. We are assuring the public that this development is not above us. The CP is on top of the situation,” he added.