Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of thirteen (13) Ebonyi indigenes in Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State during a routine monthly town union meeting held penultimate Monday.
Describing the incident as “barbaric” and “a direct assault on peace, unity, and the sanctity of human life,” Governor Nwifuru expressed deep shock over the senseless violence targeted at peaceful citizens gathered in a lawful assembly.
"It defies reason and logic that a group of Ebonyi people holding a peaceful meeting would be shot at close range. It is unacceptable, and I frown strongly at such heinous act in its entirety," the Governor said in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor on Tuesday night.
Governor Nwifuru revealed that he has contacted his Anambra State counterpart, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, urging for a swift, thorough, and transparent investigation to unravel the motive behind the killings and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
He warned that failure or compromise in prosecuting the culprits could strain the existing cordial relationship between both states, while reaffirming Ebonyi State’s commitment to protecting its citizens everywhere.
The Governor called on Ebonyi citizens, especially the affected families, to remain calm and shun any form of reprisal that could escalate tensions.
"Such barbarism has no place in modernity, and state arsenals will be deployed to unmask the perpetrators of the bloody killings," Nwifuru stated.
He also assured the public that his administration will follow the matter closely and leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice.
He maintained that his administration would continue to stand with the bereaved families and communities during this period of grief, pledging all necessary support.
