Some suspected warlords yesterday launched a brutal attack on Ikachi village in Akparata, Effium, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. The assault resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, with both victims reportedly beheaded, while seven others were kidnapped and five houses were set ablaze.
The destruction and loss of life serve as a grim reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the region, as tensions between rival factions continue to escalate.
According to a statement released by Dr. James Agena, the President-General of Effium Community, suspected Ezza warriors launched an attack on Ikachi village in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The violence also caused extensive damage to property, with damages estimated to be worth millions of naira. These latest developments serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and security challenges faced by communities in Ebonyi State.
The statement read: “I write to put you on notice that this morning at 3 am (alleged) Ezza warriors attacked Ikachi village in Akparata area of Effium resulting in the killing and beheading of two men, seven Effium natives were abducted (five women and two men), a total of 12 people sustained gunshot wounds while five houses were burnt down.
“The deceased are Obinna Aje, 19 years and Ogenyi Abowu, 78 years.
“This latest attack is in addition to (alleged), Ezza warriors attack on Effium urban last Sunday, May 12, 2024, where one Mrs. Cecelia Omah was killed and her head severed.
“This is an attack too many on the peace-loving people of Effium. I call on the government of Ebonyi State and the security agencies to promptly arrest and prosecute all those involved in the genocidal act.
“This is equally coming on the heels of an invitation by the new peace committee on May 21, 2024, for the reading of the government White Paper on Effium crisis to the two warring factions.”
It will be recalled that the crises which started in 2021, have claimed many lives, many displaced and property worth billions of naira destroyed.
A spokesperson for the Ebonyi State Police Command, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the attack, noting that the command was aware of the attack and had launched investigation into the matter.
