Imo Tragedy: Father Demands Justice After Twin Sons and Cousin Killed in Alleged Oil Dispute

A grieving father in Imo State has issued an emotional call for justice following the alleged killing of his twin sons and a nephew, in a violent dispute linked to oil revenue in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area.

John Maduakolam, from Ukwugba Obiakpu Autonomous Community, told journalists in Owerri that his sons, Ebube and Izuchukwu, and their cousin, Opara, were murdered in separate attacks allegedly carried out by a kinsman, Sixtus Chinenye Odinaka, and members of his group.

Speaking at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Mr Maduakolam said the attacks occurred between February and September 2025, plunging his family and others in the community into fear.

According to him, tensions escalated after the discovery of oil wells on ancestral land in Ukwugba, with disputes over ownership and revenue sharing. He claimed his family controls a significant portion of the land where the oil was found.

Mr Maduakolam alleged that Odinaka imposed himself as a community representative and began handling oil-related funds without transparency or consultation.

“Because of his aggressive nature, people were afraid to challenge him. Anyone who questioned how the money was handled became a target,” he said.

He recounted that the conflict turned deadly in February 2025, when his home was attacked in the early hours, leading to the killing of one of his twin sons. Despite reporting the incident to the police and the suspect being declared wanted, he said his family continued to receive threats.

Tragedy struck again in September 2025, when the second twin son was killed during another attack on the family home.

Another victim, Mrs Chinweudo Opara, also shared her account, saying her husband, Opara Abacha, was killed during the same September incident.

“He stepped outside briefly, and moments later I heard gunshots. When I rushed out, my husband was lying on the ground. I was attacked and later woke up in the hospital,” she said.

The victims confirmed that the Nigeria Police later arrested the prime suspect in Cross River State, as he allegedly attempted to flee the country. However, they said other members of the group remain at large, continuing to intimidate residents.

While thanking the police for the arrest, the families appealed for further action to apprehend all suspects and ensure the case is fully prosecuted.

“We want justice. We want this matter taken to court so that those responsible answer for what they have done,” Mr Maduakolam said.