Ebonyi Forum Condemns Two Killings in Anambra, Warns Against Reprisals

The Ebonyi Unity Forum in Anambra State has condemned two separate killings reported in Aguata Local Government Area, allegedly involving indigenes of Ebonyi State, and called on residents to avoid reprisals and stigmatisation.

The incidents involved the alleged killing of 23-year-old Mmesoma Umeorini by her boyfriend after she reportedly ended their relationship, and the death of an 18-year-old boy who was allegedly killed by his father. The incidents occurred in Uga and Ori-Eri communities, respectively.

The reported killings have raised concerns over the profiling and stigmatisation of some Ebonyi indigenes living in the affected communities.

In a statement issued on Monday, the forum’s President-General, Chief Moses Ofoke, and Secretary, Aloke Stanley, expressed shock and sadness over the incidents and called for calm.

The group said it had received reports linking Ofoke Chima, an indigene of Ntezi-Aba in Ebonyi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, to the alleged killing of Mmesoma.

According to the forum, the pair had reportedly been in a relationship for about five to six years.

It also expressed concern over the reported killing of the 18-year-old boy in Ori-Eri, allegedly by his father, an indigene of Ebonyi State, and called for a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the death.

The forum disclosed that its representatives had visited the State Criminal Investigation Department in Anambra to seek information and engage relevant authorities over the incidents.

It added that an emergency meeting was subsequently held, attended by the Traditional Leader of Non-Indigenes Living in Anambra State, HRH Igwe Amos Nkwuda, and other officials.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Ofoke said no relationship dispute, provocation or family disagreement could justify taking another person’s life.

“The killing of a girlfriend or one’s own child is an act that demands serious attention from the authorities and society at large. Human life is sacred, and disputes must be resolved through peaceful, lawful, and responsible means rather than violence,” he said.

The forum extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and called on the Anambra State Police Command, the State CID and other security agencies to conduct comprehensive, impartial and transparent investigations.

It urged the authorities to establish the facts in both cases and ensure that anyone found culpable was prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The group also appealed to security agencies to handle the investigations professionally to prevent further violence and tension in the affected communities.

It stressed that the alleged actions of individuals should not be used to judge the entire Ebonyi population.

“The alleged conduct of any individual does not represent the collective character, identity, or values of Ndi Ebonyi,” the statement added.

The forum said Ebonyi indigenes living in Anambra remained committed to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and cordial relations with their host communities.

It warned residents against retaliation, spreading unverified information and making inflammatory comments that could heighten tensions.

The group further urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders to work together to maintain peace and prevent the incidents from damaging relations between Ebonyi indigenes and their host communities.

It reiterated its call for justice, accountability and peaceful coexistence.