Nwifuru Condemns Killing of Ebonyi Indigenes in Anambra, Calls for Calm, Swift Investigation
By Ugo Ewa
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has strongly condemned the killing of thirteen Ebonyi indigenes in Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, describing the incident as a direct assault on peace, unity, and the sanctity of human life.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, Governor Nwifuru expressed deep shock and sorrow over the tragic incident, which occurred during a monthly town union meeting held penultimate Monday.
“This senseless act of violence against law-abiding citizens is not only barbaric but a direct assault on peace, unity, and the sanctity of human life. It defies reason and logic that a group of Ebonyi people holding a peaceful meeting would be shot at close range. It is unacceptable, and I strongly condemn such a heinous act in its entirety,” the Governor stated.
The Governor revealed that he has reached out to his Anambra State counterpart, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, urging him to ensure a thorough, swift, and transparent investigation into the killings.
He expressed confidence that the Anambra State Government and relevant security agencies would act promptly to apprehend those responsible, warning that any failure or compromise might strain the cordial relationship between the two states.
While awaiting the outcome of investigations, the Governor appealed to Ebonyi citizens—especially the affected families and communities—to remain calm and avoid any form of reprisal that may escalate tensions.
“Such barbarism has no place in modern society. State resources will be deployed to unmask the perpetrators of these bloody killings,” he assured.
Governor Nwifuru reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Ebonyians, both at home and in the diaspora, stressing that no one involved in the incident will be shielded from justice.
“I will continue to follow this matter closely to ensure justice is served. There will be no sacred cows,” the Governor vowed.
Similarly, in a statement issued on Tuesday, the Spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Toochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the assailants arrived in two Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and began shooting indiscriminately at the unsuspecting crowd without any provocation, causing chaos and panic within the community.
Emergency services quickly transported the victims to nearby hospitals. Despite efforts to save them, ten individuals were confirmed dead by medical personnel, and their bodies have been deposited in the morgue.
Describing the incident as “senseless and unacceptable,” the Police Command assured the public that a full-scale manhunt is underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
According to SP Ikenga, a police-led security team swiftly secured the scene and has launched an intensive investigation. Authorities are working with eyewitness accounts and intelligence gathered from the area to track down those responsible.
The Command urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Anambra State. Citizens with any relevant information were encouraged to come forward, with assurances that all tips will be handled with strict confidentiality.
