Governor Issues Fresh Warning After Killings In Ebonyi

Governor Issues Fresh Warning After Killings In Ebonyi

Governor Francis Nwifuru has warned of tougher action against the Amasiri community in Ebonyi State after it failed to meet a 72 hour deadline linked to the killings in Okporojo, Edda Local Government Area.

He spoke on Tuesday after a State Security Council meeting at the New Government House in Abakaliki, saying the community must face consequences for not producing the severed heads of the victims.

The ultimatum followed a deadly attack on Okporojo in Oso Edda where four people were killed and beheaded, worsening a long running boundary dispute between neighbouring communities.

Although the governor eased the earlier 20 hour curfew to run from 6pm to 7am, he warned that stricter steps could follow if there is no compliance.

Schools in Amasiri remain shut while investigations continue, and suspects already arrested will be taken to court.

The crisis has also drawn complaints from residents who accuse security forces of heavy handed operations.

Reports claim many young men and adult males in the area have been arrested.

Earlier, the state government dissolved the traditional and political leadership of Amasiri and ordered schools closed as part of efforts to contain the violence.

With fresh warnings now issued, the standoff between the authorities and the community appears set to deepen as security operations continue.