Amaeze in Ishiagu Community of Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State was thrown into mourning on Friday after a farmer and his two sons were reportedly killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen while they were working in their farm.
Reacting to the killings, Ivo Local Government Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Ajah, expressed profound sorrow and condemned the attack as “an evil act.” In a statement released on Sunday, Ajah pledged that the local government would intensify efforts to safeguard the lives and properties of its residents.
“It is with sadness that I, Hon. Chief Ajah Emmanuel Ogbonna, the executive chairman of Ivo Local Government Area, received the news of the brutal killing of three of my people who went to their farmland for farming activities.
Regrettably, this evil act happened to a father and his two sons,” Ajah said.
Following the incident, an emergency security meeting was held, bringing together local stakeholders, including military and police officers, officials from the Department of State Services (DSS), town union executives, and community leaders. The meeting focused on strategies to prevent further violence and maintain peace in the community.
Ajah assured the community of the government’s commitment to justice. “I strongly vow that the perpetrators of this ugly act shall be brought to book no matter what it might cost the government. We can’t stand to watch herders maim and kill our people like chickens,” he declared.
Ebonyi State Police Command spokesperson Joshua Ukandu confirmed the incident to journalists in Abakaliki, stating that police operatives were conducting extensive operations in the area to apprehend those responsible.
Hon. Ajah expressed solidarity with the grieving community, commending residents for their calm response amidst the tragedy. He urged the youth to remain vigilant, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility.
Ajah’s statement underscored the urgency of the situation: “We don’t know who might be the next victim; needless sleeping over this. I also call on the youths to devote themselves to assist in this challenge for security is our general business.”
He also extended his deepest condolences to the Amaeze community, describing the loss of three lives in a single day as an irreplaceable tragedy. Ajah reiterated his commitment to protecting his constituents and vowed that his administration would not relent until those responsible are held accountable.
