Unknown gunmen murder traditional ruler and 10 others in Okigwe, Imo State

DDM News

Tragedy struck in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State as His Royal Highness, Igwe Ilonwa Sabestine Emele, the traditional ruler of Umuezealaduru in Diakuma, was brutally murdered alongside ten others by yet-to-be-identified gunmen.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the attack, which took place on March 15, 2020, on his farmland in his ancestral village, has sent shockwaves throughout the community and beyond.

As of the time of this report, investigations into the gruesome killings are still ongoing, with no arrests made so far.

Security agencies in the state have yet to identify those responsible for the attack, raising concerns over the increasing wave of insecurity in the region.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the assailants, suspected to be gunmen, operated with impunity, meeting no resistance from security operatives in the area.

The attack reportedly occurred around Ojukwu Street, Umuchima, Owerri Road, Okigwe, near the premises of Union Bank.

Residents and passersby fled in different directions as gunshots rang through the air, leaving the entire community in chaos.

A reliable source who witnessed the incident stated that the attack was swift and deadly, with the gunmen executing their victims without mercy.

The source further noted that the attackers appeared to be well-coordinated and heavily armed, suggesting a level of planning and organization beyond ordinary criminal activities.

While no group has officially claimed responsibility for the attack, there is widespread speculation that suspected Fulani herdsmen might be behind the massacre.

The killing of the traditional ruler and ten other individuals has heightened tension in the local government area, with many residents now living in fear of further attacks.

The motive behind this barbaric act remains unclear, but concerned citizens and stakeholders have called on security agencies to intensify their efforts in unraveling those behind the attack.

Community leaders and residents have expressed their frustration over the growing insecurity in the state, urging the government to take immediate action to curb the menace of violent attacks.

In response to the incident, the Imo State House of Assembly has taken a decisive step by summoning the State Commissioner of Police to appear before the legislative body.

The police chief is expected to brief the lawmakers on the security situation in the state and provide insights into the measures being taken to prevent further attacks.

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