Gov Nwifuru removes Amasiri leaders, appointees over brutal attack in Ebonyi

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has announced sweeping sanctions against the leadership and government appointees of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area following a brutal attack that claimed the lives of four residents of Okporojo village in Oso Edda community, Edda Local Government Area.

The governor made the announcement on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo village, the scene of the violent attack allegedly carried out by suspected Amasiri warlords. According to reports, the assailants beheaded four victims, set several houses ablaze, and abducted a number of residents, leaving the community in shock and fear.

Condemning the violence, Governor Nwifuru described the incident as a tragic escalation of a long-standing boundary dispute, noting that prior reconciliation efforts had failed due to what he called a lack of genuine commitment from the communities involved.

“The boundaries have been agreed. This matter did not start today. Unfortunately, reconciliation has not been taken seriously by the communities,” he said.

As part of measures to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed, Governor Nwifuru ordered the immediate dissolution of the Amasiri Development Union executive, the withdrawal of the certificate of recognition of the traditional ruler of Amasiri, the removal of all village heads in Amasiri autonomous communities, and the dismissal of all government appointees from the area, including management committee members and commissioners.

“These actions are temporary,” he said, adding that further steps would be taken “to show everybody why we are government.”

Addressing residents of Okporojo village, the governor urged calm and restraint, assuring them of the state government’s support.

“What you need immediately is not just support, but lasting peace, and that peace will definitely come,” he said.

Governor Nwifuru expressed deep concern over the destruction in the community, noting that burnt homes and poor living conditions reflected years of neglect and insecurity. He pledged to return personally within a year to oversee measurable improvements in security and development.

He also commended security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, for their “extraordinary and noble efforts” in pursuing the attackers, with some operatives trekking as far as nine kilometres through difficult terrain to protect lives and property.

While stressing that his administration does not take sides in communal conflicts, the governor warned the Amasiri community that violence would only worsen its challenges.

“Violence will never lead anyone anywhere. Only the truth can bring peace,” he said, noting concerns over reports that neighbouring Akpoha community had blocked major roads fearing an attack, warning that the crisis could reach a “point of no return” if provocations continue.

Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his commitment to justice, peace, and security across Ebonyi State, insisting that no individual or community would be shielded from the consequences of actions threatening lives and public order.

“We love all our people, but we will not tolerate actions that endanger peace,” he said.

Our Correspondent gathered that those affected by the sanctions include the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Amari Omaka, other government appointees, management committee members, traditional rulers, town union presidents, and village heads from Amasiri community.