The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested a senior government official, two traditional rulers, and several others in connection with the deadly attack in Okporojo community, Edda Local Government Area of the state, which left four people dead.
Those arrested include the Coordinator of the Amasiri Development Centre in Afikpo Local Government Area, Anya Baron-Ogbonnia, alongside two traditional rulers identified as Onyaidam Bassey and Godfrey Oko-Obia.
Confirming the arrests, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Superintendent of Police Joshua Ukandu, said the suspects were apprehended during a joint security operation following the violent incident.
“Yes, following the attack, the coordinator of Amasiri, two traditional rulers, and other individuals were arrested during a joint security operation,” Ukandu said.
“All the suspects are currently in our custody, and investigations are ongoing. The command will not relent until everyone involved in this crime is brought to justice.”
Ukandu explained that the operation was carried out by a combined team of security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
He added that 10 other suspects had earlier been arrested as investigations into the incident continue.
The killings are believed to be linked to a long-standing land dispute between the people of Okporojo village in the Oso Edda community, Edda LGA, and neighbouring Amasiri community in Afikpo LGA.
The dispute reportedly escalated on January 29 when suspected armed assailants invaded Okporojo village, killing four residents and setting houses and other property ablaze. Three of the victims were allegedly beheaded during the attack.
In response to the violence, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, dissolved both the political and traditional leadership structures of the Amasiri clan in Afikpo Local Government Area.
The governor announced the decision on Sunday during a visit to the affected Okporojo community, describing the incident as unacceptable and a threat to peace and security in the state.
Earlier, a traditional leader in the community had appealed for urgent government intervention, calling for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
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