The Executive Chairman of Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Chief Mrs. Euphemia Nwali, has condemned in strong terms the gruesome killing of over 13 Ebonyi indigenes, including a citizen of Ezza extraction, in Ogboji town, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The attack, which occurred on last Monday, has sparked outrage and grief across Ebonyi communities, with calls for swift justice and increased protection for citizens residing outside the state.
In a press statement issued in Abakaliki on Friday, Nwali described the killings as “inhuman and barbaric,” stressing that such acts of violence against innocent civilians have no place in a just society.
“The killings are obviously inhuman and barbaric, and remain totally condemnable.
"We mourn with the families of the victims and share in their pain. It is heart-wrenching that our people who journeyed in search of livelihood had to meet such a cruel fate," she said.
While commending the proactive steps taken by the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, particularly his swift engagement with Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, the Ezza South local government boss called for urgent intervention from relevant security agencies.
“It is our collective call that the relevant authorities, especially the security agencies, swing into action to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of this carnage. Only through justice can the souls of the slain find peace, and the bereaved find solace," Nwali emphasized.
The Chairman also assured the affected families of the grassroots government's commitment to supporting them in this difficult time.
“While we condole with the bereaved, it is our assurance as a government at the local level that we will continue to do our best to reach out to you promptly in these trying moments. Please take heart," she said.
She further called on leaders, both at state and federal levels, to intensify efforts in promoting peaceful coexistence among communities and ensuring that Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic origin, are protected wherever they reside.
She recalled that the Ebonyi State government had earlier vowed to collaborate with the Anambra State government and federal security agencies to get to the root of the massacre and ensure those responsible are brought to book.