Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has strongly condemned the alleged killing of 13 Ebonyi indigenes in Ogboji community, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, describing the incident as “shocking” and “barbaric.”
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, and obtained by Channels Television, the governor expressed deep outrage over the attack, which reportedly occurred during the victims’ monthly town union meeting held last Monday.
“This senseless act of violence against law-abiding citizens is not only barbaric but a direct assault on peace, unity, and the sanctity of human life,” Nwifuru said.
“It defies reason and logic that a group of Ebonyi people holding a meeting in a peaceful manner will be shot at close range. It is unacceptable, and I frown strongly at such a heinous act in its entirety.”
The governor described the attack as unprovoked and an affront to humanity, urging calm among Ebonyi citizens while investigations are ongoing. He revealed that he has reached out to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, calling for a thorough and transparent probe into the killings.
According to the statement, Governor Nwifuru expressed confidence that the Anambra State government and relevant security agencies would swiftly identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
He also warned that failure to bring the attackers to justice could strain inter-state relations.
“While Governor Nwifuru awaits the outcome of these investigations, he has earnestly appealed to Ebonyi people, particularly the affected families and communities, to remain calm and refrain from any form of reprisal or actions that may escalate tensions,” the statement read.
He further assured that state resources would be deployed to uncover those behind the attack:
“Such barbarism has no place in modernity, and state arsenals will be deployed to unmask the perpetrators of the bloody killings.”
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the safety and well-being of Ebonyi indigenes, both within the state and across the country. He emphasized that no individual or group would be shielded from justice.
“There are no sacred cows,” he said, vowing to follow the case closely and ensure justice is served.
“Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and the entire Ebonyi community in Ogboji, hoping that the Anambra State government and security agencies will act decisively to ensure that justice is served and to prevent such atrocities from recurring,” the governor concluded.
