Barely one month after the murder of Eze Francis Igwe, father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe, another traditional ruler has been killed in Ebonyi State.
The latest victim, Ezeogo Josephat Ikegwu, was the monarch of Isinkwo Community in Onicha Local Government Area. He was reportedly murdered by unknown assailants.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Francis Nwifuru condemned the killing and directed the state’s joint security architecture to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the crime and bring those responsible to justice.
“It is with a heart weighed down by grief and deep anguish that I condemn the gruesome and senseless murder of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Josephat Ikegwu,” the governor said. “This tragic act is not only an attack on our revered traditional institution but also a direct affront to the peace, unity, and collective conscience of Ebonyi State.”
Nwifuru extended condolences to the family of the late monarch, the people of Isinkwo Community, and residents of Onicha LGA, assuring them that the government would act decisively.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late monarch and the entire community. Let me assure the people of Ebonyi, particularly those in Isinkwo, that this administration will not fold its arms in the face of such evil,” he added.
The governor noted that security agencies have been fully mobilised to track down the perpetrators, stressing that no one would be shielded from justice.
“There will be no sacred cows. No individual or group, no matter how highly placed or connected, will be spared if found culpable,” he declared.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing that peace and security are critical to development.
“The sanctity of human life remains non-negotiable under my watch. Without peace, there can be no progress; without security, there can be no future,” Nwifuru said.
The governor also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and security agencies to collaborate in maintaining peace and order across the state.
