Anambra community title holder shot dead, indigenes suspect Igweship tussle as reason
Traditional Ruler of Nri Community Shot Dead in Anambra State
NRI, ANAMBRA STATE — Oba Maduka Arubaluezeama, a prominent figure in the Nri Community and traditional title holder, was shot dead on Tuesday evening. Arubaluezeama, widely known by his title Oba Muozuluaru, was reportedly assassinated at a construction site where he was overseeing an ongoing project.
Witnesses in the community indicated that the incident occurred around 7 p.m. in Nise as Arubaluezeama prepared to enter his vehicle. Assailants confronted him and opened fire, causing fatal injuries.
The motive behind the killing remains uncertain, but local sources suspect it may be linked to a protracted dispute over the community’s traditional leadership position, which has remained vacant for nearly eight years following the death of the previous ruler, Eze Obidiegwu Onyeso. Efforts to appoint a successor have led to ongoing conflicts among community members.
Residents have expressed concern that the violence may be connected to tensions surrounding land disputes in the area. Sources revealed that Arubaluezeama’s construction site is involved in a land controversy, with wealthy individuals also claiming plots for their own projects. In the past, the community has experienced violence linked to these disputes; previous incidents have included assaults on local leaders and members of traditional societies.
Community members are mourning Arubaluezeama’s death, highlighting his popularity and the impact of his loss on local affairs. Calls for an in-depth police investigation into the incident have emerged as residents seek answers.
As of the latest reports, Anambra police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that he was unaware of the shooting incident. The community awaits further information as tensions remain high in the wake of this tragic event.
