Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has strongly condemned the communal violence between Amasiri community in Afikpo North Local Government Area and Okporojo village in Oso Edda in Edda Local Government Area which led to the beheading of four Okporojo villagers on Thursday night.
Expressing his anger and disappointment over the clash, Governor Nwifuru announced the sack of all government appointees from Amasiri community as well as the dissolution of of the Amasiri Town Union, he also withdraw recognition and staff of office of the Amasiri traditional ruler.
The renewed violence aside from claiming the lives of the four beheaded Okporojo villagers, other residents were also reportedly abducted while many houses were burnt in the overnight attack.
Governor Nwifuru who described the incident as “tragic” noted that the land dispute had earlier been resolved, but the villagers seem to have still held each other in mutual suspicion.
According to the governor, “The boundaries have been agreed. This matter did not start today. Unfortunately, reconciliation has not been taken to the bank by the communities.”
Governor Nwifuru said that he had to take stringent measure “to show everybody why we are government.”
The governor, however, assured residents of the community that efforts were in top gear to ensure that lasting peace returns to the community.
“What you need immediately is not just support, but permanent peace, and that peace will definitely come.”
“We love all our people, but we will not tolerate actions that endanger peace,” he assured the residents.
While commending security operatives in the area for immediately ensuring that the situation was arrested.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, peace, and security across Ebonyi State, emphasizing that no individual or community would be shielded from the consequences of actions that threaten lives and public order.