Gunmen kill traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, sparking tension in Umuihe community

In a tragic incident over the weekend, suspected gunmen invaded Umuihe autonomous community in Akaeze, Ivo local government area of Ebonyi State, resulting in the death of the community’s traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Umazi Ibo Ubani.

According to reports, the gunmen unleashed heavy gunfire during the invasion, sending residents into panic as they fled for safety.

Confirming the incident, Chinasa Okorie, the Coordinator of Akaeze Development Centre, expressed condemnation for the killing of the monarch. He disclosed that the attack occurred around 10:00 pm on Friday, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

Describing the late traditional ruler as a man of integrity, Okorie lamented the loss, emphasizing the significant impact of the ruler’s boldness, fearlessness, and intelligence on the community, local government, and the state as a whole.

Similarly, Sinbad Ogbuatu, another stakeholder from the community, conveyed the tension and apprehension gripping the area following the incident. He mentioned that the attack had disrupted normal activities, with markets and shops remaining closed as residents grappled with the aftermath.

Confirming the incident, the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, assured that the police were actively pursuing the assailants. While the gunmen had fled the scene by the time law enforcement arrived, efforts were underway to track them down and bring them to justice.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with residents and authorities alike eager for answers amidst the grief and uncertainty that now permeate Umuihe community.