ONICHA, Ebonyi State — Exactly one month after the murder of a traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, another monarch has been shot dead by unidentified gunmen in his own palace.
The latest victim, HRH Jehoshaphat Ikegwu, traditional ruler of Ishinkwor community in Onicha Local Government Area, was killed when suspected assailants invaded his residence and fired shots through his window.
His death brings the total number of monarchs murdered in the state to five in the space of a few weeks.
Last month, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area was abducted before his body was discovered and set ablaze by his kidnappers.
Approximately nine suspects were arrested in connection with that crime, but nothing further has been heard about them since.
A source within the Ishinkwor community told Stonix News that the latest incident has thrown residents into panic, with many expressing fears over the deteriorating security situation in the area.
“They came in the night and operated without resistance. It is shocking and terrifying,” a resident, who requested anonymity, said.
The Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, Ikechukwu Ogbofia, who confirmed the killing, condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.
He disclosed that security agencies had been mobilised to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. The government is working closely with security agencies to ensure those responsible are apprehended. We urge members of the community to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement,” Ogbofia stated.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the command had received information regarding the incident and said an investigation had commenced.
