Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has ordered sweeping sanctions against the leadership and government appointees of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area, following the gruesome killing of four residents of Okporojo village in Oso Edda community, Edda Local Government Area.
The governor announced the measures on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo village, where suspected warlords from Amasiri allegedly launched a deadly attack that resulted in the beheading of four persons, the burning of several houses, and the abduction of residents.
Condemning the violence in strong terms, Governor Nwifuru described the incident as a tragic escalation of a protracted boundary dispute that had previously undergone reconciliation processes, which ultimately failed due to what he described as a lack of genuine commitment by the affected communities.
“The boundaries have been agreed. This matter did not start today. Unfortunately, reconciliation has not been taken to the bank by the communities,” the governor said.
As part of decisive measures to restore peace and forestall further bloodshed, Governor Nwifuru announced the immediate dissolution of the Amasiri Development Union executive, the withdrawal of the certificate of recognition of the traditional ruler of Amasiri, the removal of all village heads across Amasiri autonomous communities, and the sacking of all government appointees from the area ranging from management committee members to commissioners.
“These actions are for the time being,” the governor stated, adding that the state government would take further steps “to show everybody why we are government.”
Addressing the grieving residents of Okporojo village, Governor Nwifuru urged them to remain calm and exercise restraint, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support.
“What you need immediately is not just support, but permanent peace, and that peace will definitely come,” he assured.
The governor expressed deep concern over the extent of destruction in the community, noting that the burnt homes and deplorable living conditions of residents reflected years of neglect and insecurity.
He pledged to personally return to the community within one year to demonstrate measurable improvements in security and development.
Governor Nwifuru also commended security agencies operating in the area including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security formations for what he described as their “extraordinary and noble efforts” in tracking down the perpetrators.
According to him, some operatives trekked as far as nine kilometres through difficult terrain in pursuit of the attackers and have assured the state government of their commitment to protecting lives and property in the affected communities.
While stressing that his administration does not take sides in communal conflicts, the governor warned the Amasiri community to reflect deeply on its actions, insisting that violence would only compound its challenges.
“Violence will never lead anyone anywhere. It is only the truth that can bring peace,” he said.
He also expressed concern over reports that neighbouring Akpoha community had blocked major roads over fears of an impending attack, warning that the crisis was nearing a “point of no return” if provocations persisted.
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, peace, and security across Ebonyi State, emphasizing that no individual or community would be shielded from the consequences of actions that threaten lives and public order.
“We love all our people, but we will not tolerate actions that endanger peace,” he said.
Our Correspondent gathered that those affected by the sack include the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Amari Omaka, other government appointees, management committee members, traditional rulers, town union presidents, and village heads from Amasiri community, among others.
