One person has been killed and four others injured in Ekoli Edda, Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, following an attack by suspected political thugs.
The latest incident, which occurred on June 1, saw over ten armed assailants launch an assault on the community, resulting in the destruction of houses and other properties. This development is the latest in an ongoing clash between two rival political groups in the area.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers targeted former Local Government Chairman and former House of Assembly member, Eni Uduma Chima, while he was inspecting damage to a house reportedly owned by a Port Harcourt-based businessman, Ama Okoro Ibiam.
One eyewitness, Chima Oko Obasi, recounted that the attackers shot at Chima and his entourage during the inspection in the Mgborokuma area. Obasi said the earlier attack had occurred around 10:00 a.m. the same day when the body of Okoro Obasi of Ndibom village was being taken to the mortuary. According to him, the deceased’s children and friends were also attacked and sustained severe machete cuts.
Another resident, Nnachi Ndem, said the attackers, identified as the "Catcham boys," have been targeting community members since some individuals returned from prison under an amnesty program by the state government. He warned that the community might resort to self-defense if authorities fail to act swiftly.
Confirming the incident, Eni Uduma Chima said, “I was called from Ekoli-Edda this morning and informed about the death of my uncle, Mr. Okoro Obasi of Ndibom village. He was attacked by thugs known as Catcham boys, sustained internal bleeding, and died in his house.”
Chima further stated that after depositing the body at the mortuary, he inspected the damage to properties and was attacked by the same group. The attackers shattered the windows of his Prado jeep and injured three people—Chinoyerem Ikwor, Uka Anya Egwu, and Udu Uche—who are currently receiving medical treatment.
He called for the immediate arrest of those involved, warning of potential community retaliation if the violence continues.
The Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the incident. He noted that while full details were yet to emerge, security personnel have been deployed to restore calm in the area.
