In a press statement issued and signed by NYCN Chairman Ebonyi State, Comrade Douglas Ochishi on Sunday, the Council described the attacks as inhumane, reprehensible and unacceptable, adding that no land dispute, regardless of its nature, can justify the killing of innocent citizens or the wanton destruction of entire communities.
The NYCN expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and sympathised with the residents affected by the violence, noting that the attack has plunged the community into fear and uncertainty.
The Council also extolled Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State for his swift and decisive response to the crisis.
According to NYCN, the Governor’s intervention, which included the declaration of a curfew, the order for arrests, and directives for the recovery of severed heads, demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to protecting lives and property in Ebonyi State.
The statement further applauded the Governor for dissolving compromised community structures, including sacking of his appointees and other emergency measures aimed at restoring peace in the affected area.
“Governor Nwifuru’s zero-tolerance stance against violence sends a clear message that Ebonyi State will not be a safe haven for criminality,” the Council stated.
NYCN also called on youths across the state to reject violence and criminality, urging them to champion peace, unity and sustainable development. The Council stressed that youths must not allow themselves to be used as instruments of destruction in community conflicts.
The youth body reiterated its commitment to partnering with government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders to promote dialogue, peaceful coexistence and effective conflict resolution.
NYCN therefore appealed to all parties involved in the land dispute to allow justice to take its course and to embrace peace for the sake of lasting stability in Ebonyi State.
