By Victor Nwegede
A coalition of prominent Anambra State citizens residing in Ebonyi State has joined forces with the Governor of Ebonyi State, Chief Francis Nwifuru, in condemning the gruesome killings that took place in Ogboji community, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State on Monday, June 30, 2025.
The united voices of concern and grief were expressed in a statement released on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, as the tragic incident continues to elicit national outrage.
According to the statement endorsed by
Lady Rose Ezeadikwa, Special Assistant to the Governor of Ebonyi State on Urban Women Mobilization, Chief Okoye Augustine - President, Ebonyi State Landlords Association, Chief JC Okpala - Grand Patron, Ebonyi State Landlords Association and four others, the brutal killing of over 11 Ebonyi indigenes who were peacefully gathered for a town union meeting in Ogboji is a direct affront to humanity and a stain on the nation's conscience.
“We condemn in totality such an inhuman act. Life is sacred and nobody has any right to take it. This tragic loss has left us in mourning, and we stand in solidarity with the people and government of Ebonyi State in this moment of pain," part of the statement read.
It noted that Governor Nwifuru, known for his commitment to peace and inter-state harmony, has already taken steps to ensure the incident does not escalate into a wider conflict and as well as expressed confidence in the Anambra State Government to act decisively.
“We have every hope that the Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, will carry out a thorough investigation and bring to book the perpetrators of this dastardly act,” the signatories affirmed.
They extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of those lost.
The group further extolled Governor Nwifuru’s leadership and swift response in calling for calm, as well as his consistent advocacy for peace and security in Ebonyi and neighboring states.
Speaking to journalists while clarifying their stance, Chief JC Okpala, emphasized the need for continuous collaboration between security agencies and communities to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.
“This should never have happened. These were innocent men simply holding a peaceful meeting. We believe that justice will prevail and urge the Anambra State Government to act with urgency and fairness,” he said.
Similarly, Lady Rose Ezeadikwa decried the alarming pattern of attacks on settlers in neighboring states, warning that if unchecked, such violence could unravel the fabric of peaceful coexistence in the Southeast.
“We are deeply saddened and outraged. As a woman leader, I am particularly disturbed by the trauma this has caused to the families, especially the women and children who have now been left to grieve without answers. This must not be swept under the rug,” she lamented.
Chief Okoye Augustine called on traditional institutions and local leaders in both Ebonyi and Anambra to work hand-in-hand to heal the wounds and maintain unity.
“This is a test of our shared humanity. Our people must not allow this to degenerate. We must protect peace with all we have,” he said.
Pharm. Anene Chukwuemeka Jude Octavia echoed the call for peace, warning against any retaliatory actions. “Vengeance is not the answer. The perpetrators must face justice through lawful means. We must not be driven into a cycle of violence,” he added.
The statement came amidst mounting pressure on the Anambra State government to unravel the circumstances behind the massacre. Civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the international community have all called for transparency and accountability.
Governor Nwifuru had earlier expressed his deep sorrow over the killings and vowed that Ebonyi would follow up on the investigation to ensure justice is served. He also appealed to residents of Ebonyi not to take laws into their hands but allow due process to take its course.
Meanwhile, Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has also condemned the killings and assured that the perpetrators will be brought to justice. A high-level security investigation team has reportedly been deployed to Ogboji to commence a thorough probe into the incident.
