The Ebonyi Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (EB-CSOs) has condemned the killing of residents of the Okporojo community and demanded an independent investigation into the incident.
This was contained in a statement issued and signed by Dr. Kelechukwu Okezie, Co-Chair of EB-CSOs on Sunday.
The coalition said the killings were allegedly carried out by individuals identified as members of the Amasiri Kingsmen.
The group described the killings as barbaric and gruesome, saying they violated human rights, the sanctity of life and the rule of law.
The coalition urged security agencies and relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation to identify all perpetrators, sponsors and collaborators.
It also demanded that all individuals found culpable be arrested and prosecuted according to the law.
The EB-CSOs called for restorative justice for the victims, including compensation, psychosocial support, rehabilitation and reconstruction assistance for affected families and the community.
The coalition further urged traditional institutions, community leaders, government authorities and civil society groups to initiate dialogue and reconciliation processes to prevent further violence.
It also demanded increased security deployment in vulnerable communities to protect lives and property and prevent reprisal attacks.
The statement said the coalition stands in solidarity with the victims and their families and called on the Ebonyi State Government, security agencies, traditional rulers and religious leaders to act swiftly to restore peace and public confidence.
