Bloodshed in Okporojo: Nwifuru Dissolves Amasiri Power Structure
Nkechinyere Ewa
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has ordered sweeping sanctions against the leadership and government appointees of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area following the gruesome killing of four residents of Okporojo village in Oso Edda community, Edda Local Government Area of the state.
The governor announced the sanctions on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo village, where suspected warlords from Amasiri allegedly launched a deadly attack that led to the beheading of four persons, the burning of several houses, and the abduction of residents.
Condemning the attack, Governor Nwifuru described the incident as a tragic escalation of a long-standing boundary dispute that had previously undergone reconciliation processes, which, according to him, failed due to lack of sincerity among the affected communities. “The boundaries have been agreed. This matter did not start today. Unfortunately, reconciliation has not been taken to the bank by the communities,” the governor said.
As part of immediate measures to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed, Governor Nwifuru announced the dissolution of the Amasiri Development Union executive, the withdrawal of the certificate of recognition of the traditional ruler of Amasiri, the removal of all village heads across Amasiri autonomous communities, and the sacking of all government appointees from Amasiri, ranging from management committee members to commissioners. “These actions are for the time being. We will take further steps to show everybody why we are government,” he stated.
Addressing the grieving residents of Okporojo village, the governor urged calm and restraint, assuring them of the state government’s unwavering support. “What you need immediately is not just support, but permanent peace, and that peace will definitely come,” he assured.
Governor Nwifuru expressed deep concern over the level of destruction in the community, noting that the burnt homes and harsh living conditions of residents reflected years of neglect and insecurity. He pledged to personally return to the community within one year to demonstrate measurable improvements in security and development.
The governor also commended security agencies operating in the area, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security formations, for what he described as their “extraordinary and noble efforts” in tracking down the perpetrators.
According to him, some operatives trekked as far as nine kilometres through difficult terrain in pursuit of the attackers and have assured the state government of their commitment to protecting lives and property in the affected communities.
While stressing that his administration does not take sides in communal conflicts, Governor Nwifuru warned the Amasiri community to reflect deeply on its actions, insisting that violence would only compound its challenges. “Violence will never lead anyone anywhere. It is only the truth that can bring peace,” he said.
He also expressed concern over reports that Akpoha community had blocked major roads over fears of a possible attack, warning that continued provocations could push the crisis to a “point of no return.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to justice, peace, and security across Ebonyi State, the governor emphasized that no individual or community would be shielded from the consequences of actions that threaten public order. “We love all our people, but we will not tolerate actions that endanger peace,” he declared.
Our Correspondent gathered that those affected by the sack include the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof. Amari Omaka, other government appointees, management committee members, traditional rulers, town union executives, and village heads from Amasiri community, among others.
