Violence Spreads In Enugu Community Over Leadership Battle

Residents of Mburubu in Nkanu East, Enugu State, are living in fear after a wave of violent attacks linked to a dispute over the selection of a new traditional ruler.

The clashes, which escalated on October 31, have been blamed on armed groups allegedly loyal to the state Commissioner for Science and Technology, Lawrence Ozoemena Ezeh.

Survivors told how armed youths stormed parts of the community late at night, beating residents, destroying homes, and shooting into the air. Many said the violence began after the community announced Jerry Patrick Onuokaibe as its chosen monarch, a decision that sparked resistance from a rival group.

One of the injured residents, Ezekiel Nwannaji Ogbonna, recalled returning from work when he was surrounded by armed men led by two youths known as 2Face and Bakasi. He said they beat him until both his hands were broken, leaving him unable to work and costing him his job. His friend, who walked with him, was also attacked and badly injured.

Another resident, Paul Edeh, said he was beaten, shot at, and kicked because he supported Onuokaibe. He narrated how the group confronted him on the road, leaving him with broken teeth and deep injuries. He accused the attackers of working for the commissioner.

Women in the community also described how gunfire rang out around 10 pm that night. They said families fled into hiding as the armed group moved through the area. Many homes were damaged, and several people were wounded before dawn.

Community leaders said Mburubu had been peaceful until the tussle for the Igweship began. They explained that the selection process followed long-established rules and that Onuokaibe was unanimously chosen by elders, chiefs, and village representatives. They accused the commissioner of attempting to impose another candidate and training youths outside the state who now terrorise residents.

Stakeholders, including former councillor Romanus Azubike Njoku and Chief Ezekwe Onwuka, said the attacks were well-coordinated and lasted for hours. They warned that the community is now living under constant fear and urged the state government to step in before the situation worsens.

During a visit to the area, damaged homes and scattered properties showed the scale of destruction. Residents held protests, demanding Governor Peter Mbah’s intervention and insisting that they stand by Onuokaibe as their chosen traditional ruler.

As of the time this report was filed, the commissioner had not responded to requests for comment, and the state government had not issued an official statement on the crisis.