Ebonyi Governor Imposes Sweeping Sanctions Following Brutal Community Attack
In a decisive response to a horrific incident of communal violence, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has taken unprecedented administrative actions against the Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area. The governor announced the immediate dismissal of all government appointees, dissolution of community development union leadership, removal of all village heads, and withdrawal of the traditional ruler's certificate.
Violent Ambush Triggers Governor's Anger
The governor's drastic measures followed a violent attack on Okporojo Community in Oso Edda, Edda Local Government Area, where unidentified armed men reportedly ambushed residents on the afternoon of January 29, 2026. During this brutal assault, four individuals were beheaded with their heads taken away, and multiple houses were set ablaze.
Governor Nwifuru made the announcement during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo on Saturday, January 31, where he addressed visibly traumatized residents, community leaders, security agencies, and government officials. The governor described himself as "visibly angry" over the killings, expressing profound disappointment that such brutality could occur in Ebonyi State.
Comprehensive Administrative Actions
The governor's sweeping sanctions include:
- Immediate dismissal of all government appointees from Amasiri, including commissioners and management committee members
- Dissolution of the Amasiri Town Development Union executive leadership
- Removal of all village heads across Amasiri autonomous communities
- Withdrawal of the traditional ruler's certificate, effectively dethroning the monarch
Nwifuru emphasized that these actions represent only initial measures, stating "for the time being, we will do more. And we will show everybody why we're government." He assured the Okporojo community that the state government would decisively deal with those responsible for the violence.
Longstanding Conflict and Failed Reconciliation
The governor revealed that the conflict between the communities has persisted for years despite multiple reconciliation efforts. He lamented that boundary agreements between the affected communities had been consistently disregarded, leading to the current escalation of violence.
Nwifuru issued a stern warning to the Amasiri community, stating "My message to the people of Amasiri is to have a rethink because violence will never lead them anywhere." He referenced reports that Akpoha community had blocked roads in anticipation of attacks from Amasiri, indicating the situation had reached "the point of no return."
Commitment to Peace and Justice
Despite his anger, the governor urged all parties to maintain peace and avoid retaliatory violence, warning that such actions would only worsen the situation. He stressed that government responses would be firm but measured to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration's commitment to restoring permanent peace in Edda, promising tangible improvements from government intervention within the coming year. He emotionally stated, "I am particularly very saddened. I repent of this kind of development. I've never in my whole life expected this kind of development."
The governor concluded with a solemn promise to the victims' families: "I promise you, the lives lost will never be in vain by the special grace of God. At the end of the day, those that started the war will regret it."
