Communal Clash Leads To Death Of One In Ebonyi
One person has been killed over a land crisis between Oso-Edda, Amasiri and Nde Ndukwe Communities in Ebonyi State.
Sources in the area alleged that people of Nde Ndukwe and Amasiri communities invaded farm settlement villages in Ọsọ-Edda and destroyed houses, farm produce and every property in sight, The Nation reports.
Amasiri and Nde Ndukwe communities are in Afikpo North Local government Area.
It was reported the crisis began on Monday and lasted till Wednesday before security personnel stepped in to restore peace.
Also, a community leader in Afikpo South Local government was said to have been murdered and beheaded.
It was reported the head was taken away by invaders and is yet to be found.
The chairman of Afikpo South Local Government Area, Chima Ekumankama disclosed the incident in a statement.
He expressed sadness over the crisis, promising the government will ensure adequate security of residents in the communities.
“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 invadement of Okporojo in Oso and other part of Edda Clan by our neighbours of Nde Ndukwe and Amasiri of Afikpo North LGA where properties, farm produce worth millions of naira and a life was 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”, he said.
Also in Okporojo village in the Oso-Edda area of the State, four persons were kidnapped.
However, they were released after a peace gathering organised by chairmen of both councils in support of some community leaders and security operatives.
Responding to the attack, the Police Public Relations Officer in the State, Chris Anyanwu disclosed waiting for the Police report in the area before reacting.
“Once I get the authenticated information about what is going on there then I will react.”