Suspected warlords killed Godwin Odah in Akparata village, Ebonyi State. This Ebonyi killing happens less than one week after Governor Francis Nwifuru released 158 detainees. Authorities arrested those detainees during the four-year Effium intra-communal war.
The attackers beheaded Odah. They also cut off parts of his body behind his house. This violence shocks residents. It threatens the community’s unstable peace.
The Ebonyi State Police Command said it did not know about the killing. ASP Joshua Ukandu is the spokesperson. However, Dr. Agena James, President-General of Effium Town Union, confirmed the attack. He reported it to Governor Nwifuru.
“Your Excellency, Sir, I wish to inform you that this morning at about 11:30 am, Ezza warriors killed Godwin Odah at the back of his compound,” Dr. James said.
Dr. James expressed sadness about the new violence. He wants the immediate arrest of those responsible. “Ezza-Effium people are truncating the peace process again. The murdered victim had his head, one of his hands, and a leg severed in the most barbaric manner,” he added. He wants immediate arrests.
The killing questions the government’s peace plan. The plan included releasing detainees. Effium and Ezza-Effium stakeholders also signed an agreement to stop violence.
Governor Nwifuru hoped this would create lasting peace. Odah’s murder shows that strong disagreements continue. This Ebonyi Killing increases demands for quick action to stop more violence. The community is troubled.
