The Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has strongly condemned the recent attack by herdsmen in the Nimbo community, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, which resulted in the death of four persons.
The victims are Okeh Oruku, Okeh Chukwuemeka, Julius Odiegwu, and Gabriel Ezea.
In a statement on Tuesday by its Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze Ndigbo described the killings as “a heinous and deliberate assault on its people, particularly those living in boundary communities.”
The group refused to accept that the attacks were mere coincidences, following the lamentations of the Northern Elders Forum over similar incidents.
“There is a disturbing pattern emerging, and we urge immediate action to uncover the truth behind these violent reprisals,” the statement read.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo called upon the South-East governors, the Inspector General of Police, and other relevant security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the renewed killings, stating, “The lives of South-East residents, especially vulnerable farmers in rural areas, must be safeguarded.”
“We implore our leaders to rise to the occasion and provide the necessary protection for our communities under siege,” the statement urged.
Extending condolences to Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State and the bereaved families in the Nimbo community, Ohanaeze Ndigbo demanded that the perpetrators of the atrocities face the full consequences of their actions.
“As we navigate through this perilous period, we call on South East residents to collaborate with community vigilante groups and security forces to enhance the security of our rural areas. We must remain vigilant and united in the face of potential attacks aimed at disrupting our farming seasons and creating false insecurities to hinder our food production,” the statement read.
Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged the South-East Governors to reinstate the ban on the conveyance of cattle by foot within the region, asserting that “cattle-rearing operations must adhere to established laws and respect the peace of our host communities.”
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