Ebonyi group condemns killings in Anambra, calls for justice
The Ebonyi Unity Forum has condemned the recent killings of a woman and an 18-year-old boy in Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, urging security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure justice is served.
In a statement released on Monday, the forum called on residents of the affected communities to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions that could escalate tensions. The reported incidents include the alleged murder of 23-year-old Mmesoma Umeorini by her boyfriend following a breakup, as well as the killing of an 18-year-old boy by his father. These events occurred in the Uga and Ori-Eri communities, respectively.
Signed by President-General Chief Moses Ofoke and Secretary Aloke Stanley, the statement expressed deep concern over the killings and the stigmatization some Ebonyi indigenes have faced in the region. The forum emphasized that the actions of individuals should not reflect upon the entire community.
In response, representatives of the forum visited the State Criminal Investigation Department in Anambra to engage with authorities and gather information regarding the incidents. They subsequently convened an emergency meeting that included HRH Igwe Amos Nkwuda, the Traditional Leader of Non-Indigenes Living in Anambra State, and other officials to address the situation.
Ofoke stated, “No disagreement, provocation, relationship dispute, or family misunderstanding can justify the unlawful taking of another person’s life.” He described the killing of a partner or child as an act requiring serious attention from both authorities and society. “Human life is sacred, and disputes must be addressed through peaceful and lawful means,” he added.
The forum extended its condolences to the grieving families and called for comprehensive, impartial, and transparent investigations by the Anambra State Police Command and the State CID into both cases. It urged authorities to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the deaths and to ensure that those responsible are prosecuted.
The organization further emphasized the need for a professional approach to the investigations to prevent future incidents and avoid inflaming tensions. It warned against collective blame, asserting that the actions of a few do not represent the character or values of the Ebonyi people.
The Ebonyi Unity Forum reaffirmed the commitment of its members to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cordial relations with their host communities. It also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organizations, and other stakeholders to work collaboratively to maintain peace.
Residents were cautioned against spreading unverified information, making inflammatory comments, or resorting to vigilante justice. The forum stressed that the reported killings should not compromise relations between Ebonyi indigenes and their host communities, reiterating its call for justice, accountability, and the protection of human life during the ongoing investigations.
