Umahi Reacts to Protest Over Killing of NELAN Engineers
Nkechinyere Ewa
DAVID Umahi the Minister of Works has expressed deep regret over the killing of engineers from NELAN Consulting Engineers, stating that the tragic incident occurred during the violent communal conflict between Ezza and Effium communities in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi state.
Umahi’s clarification followed a protest on Monday by individuals identified as family members and sympathizers of the late engineers who demanded justice and accountability over the incident.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Francis Nwaeze, the Minister described the deaths as a painful episode that continues to weigh heavily on the affected families and the state.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on November 3, 2021, at the height of the violent communal crisis that engulfed Effium and neighbouring communities, resulting in loss of lives and widespread destruction of property.
Umahi, who served as governor of Ebonyi State at the time, acknowledged the grief of the bereaved families, stressing that the state government treated the matter with urgency and seriousness.
“No family deserves such grief,” the statement noted, adding that the engineers were caught in the wave of violence that characterised the prolonged Effium/Ezza Effium communal crisis.
The Minister explained that immediately the incident was reported, the state government under his leadership mobilised security agencies to launch a full scale search and investigation.
He was said to have personally visited the scene alongside security operatives to coordinate efforts aimed at locating the missing engineers and bringing those responsible to justice.
According to the statement, investigations later led to the arrest of suspects believed to be involved in the killing, who allegedly confessed to the crime and have since remained in custody.
The suspects, the statement added, were handed over to the judicial authorities, while the case continues to be prosecuted in court.
Umahi maintained that the government at the time did not abandon the matter or attempt to suppress it, stressing that the judicial process remains ongoing.
He further noted that the wider communal violence in Effium created a volatile environment that claimed many innocent lives, including the engineers.
While extending sympathy to the bereaved families, the Minister urged the public to allow facts and the ongoing legal process to guide discussions on the incident.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to justice, the rule of law and the pursuit of truth, while praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and strength for their families.
