One Killed, Properties Destroyed In Ebonyi Communal Crisis

At least, one person was beheaded and property worth millions of Naira was destroyed in a fresh crisis between the people of Oso-Edda, and Amasiri in Ebonyi State. 

It was gathered that the communities have been having a dispute over land at their boundary for years but it has been managed and curtailed from turning violent till this week.

Sources in the area alleged that the crisis started after the Nde Ndukwe and Amasiri people invaded farm settlement villages in Edda and started destroying houses, farm produce and every property in sight.

The invasion started on Monday, February 6, and lasted till Wednesday when security agencies stepped in to restore normalcy.

It was gathered that one Chima Orji of Idima Autonomous Community in Afikpo South local government was brutally murdered and beheaded by the invaders. The head was taken away by the assailants and is yet to be found.

The worst hit is Okporojo village in Oso-Edda which is said to have been reduced to rubbles and ruins. Four persons were abducted but were later freed after a peace meeting organized by the Chairmen of both councils in conjunction with some Monarchs and the Head of Security Agencies in the area.

Chairman of Afikpo South local government area, Chima Ekumankama, who confirmed the incident in a statement, described the situation as pathetic and painful and called on the entire Edda clan to remain law-abiding.

“I Hon. Prince Chima Ekumankama wishes to call on the good people of Okporojo, Oso and Edda Clan, in general, to remain calm and law-abiding over the unwarranted invasion of Okporojo in Oso and other parts of Edda Clan by our neighbours of Nde Ndukwe and Amasiri of Afikpo North LGA where properties, farm produce worth millions of naira and life were lost.

“The situation is pathetic and painful, thus while I sympathise with all those affected, I implore the good people of Oso and Edda, in general, to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses as the situation is under control.”

The Chairman of Afikpo South local government area, Uche Ibiam, also confirmed the release of the abducted persons. He said his administration is working with security agencies to contain the situation and prevent a reoccurrence.

The spokesperson of the state police command, Chris Anyanwu, said he was waiting for a report from the Police in the area before commenting on the incident.