The immediate past Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi State, Charles Akpu-enika, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 13 Ebonyi indigenes during a town union meeting in Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interview, Akpu-enika described the attack as "barbaric, senseless, and a gross affront to humanity and common sense."
“This attack was unwarranted and a huge slap on every inkling of sensibility,” he stated. “Any assault on the lives of innocent citizens of Nigeria must be condemned by all.”
He emphasized the sanctity of human life, stressing that no one has the right to take life under any circumstance.
“The sacred nature of life makes it untouchable — it must not be taken by any human being, regardless of the reason,” he said.
Akpu-enika called on the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation is launched, and that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.
“The pragmatic Governor of Anambra State owes it a duty to the people to investigate this heinous act and ensure that the perpetrators face the full weight of the law,” he said.
He further urged security agencies to conduct an in-depth inquiry to ensure justice is served to the victims and their grieving families.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the victims,” he added.
Akpu-enika also appealed for calm and continued peaceful coexistence between the people of Ebonyi and Anambra, highlighting their long-standing brotherhood.
“Ebonyi and Anambra have always related like brothers and sisters. In Ebonyi, the safety and wellbeing of non-indigenes have always been respected and protected. We must not allow the evil actions of a few to poison this bond.”
He commended Ebonyi State Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for his inclusive and peace-loving leadership, encouraging citizens to emulate such values.
“We must continue to love one another and allow peace and harmony to guide our daily lives,” he noted.
Akpu-enika called on all people of the South East to unite and unequivocally condemn the atrocity, stressing that collective vigilance is necessary to prevent a recurrence.
“The people of the South East must rise in one voice to denounce this despicable act and ensure it never happens again,” he concluded.
