Ebonyi attack Amasiri leaders sacked as Governor Nwifuru dissolves political and traditional structures after deadly Okporojo incident

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has ordered the removal of traditional rulers in the Amasiri clan of Afikpo Local Government Area and directed the withdrawal of their staff of office following a violent attack in Okporojo community, Oso Edda, that left four people dead.

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The governor also sacked the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Prof Amari Omaka, and dissolved the entire political and traditional leadership structure of the area.

The action followed reports that the victims were killed and their heads taken away by assailants during the incident.

Nwifuru issued the directive on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo, where he addressed residents, community leaders, security agencies, and government officials.

He described the attack as “most unfortunate” and condemned what he termed a “barbaric incident” in the state.

“I am particularly very saddened. I have never in my whole life expected this kind of development. It’s quite unfortunate,” the governor said, urging residents to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions.

He assured that the state government would take firm but measured steps to ensure justice and prevent further escalation.

The governor noted that the conflict had lingered for years despite previous reconciliation efforts and boundary agreements between the affected communities, lamenting that such agreements were not respected.

He warned that the situation was approaching “a point of no return” if provocations continued.

As part of immediate measures, Nwifuru announced the dissolution of the Amasiri Town Development Union and its executive members, the withdrawal of the traditional ruler’s certificate, and the removal of all village heads in the Amasiri autonomous community.

He also ordered the removal of political appointees from the community, from management committee members to commissioners serving in his administration.

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Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in Edda Local Government Area, expressing confidence that government intervention would bring visible improvements to the community within the next year.