EKO HOT BLOG reports that two individuals have been tragically reported dead following a violent clash that erupted in Awgbu community, situated in the Orumba North local government area of Anambra State.
The clash, which occurred on Thursday night, was driven by an ongoing struggle for supremacy among local leaders in the area, according to eyewitness accounts.
Eyewitnesses revealed that the confrontation took place at Eke Awgbu market, where a group of youths set fire to several shops believed to be owned by members of the opposing factions. Disturbingly, the casualties were identified as members of the community’s vigilant outfit who were stationed at their duty post when they were fatally shot.
In an interview with Vanguard, Chief Ben Ezeibe, a community leader, pleaded with Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene in the matter promptly to restore peace to the community. Ezeibe attributed the prolonged leadership dispute to the residents’ failure to comply with court orders.
Speaking on the issue, Chief Ezeibe emphasized the negative consequences of a factionalized leadership on the community’s progress, asserting that a divided community cannot thrive. He expressed concern that criminals have taken advantage of the protracted dispute, causing significant hardship to the people of Awgbu. Chief Ezeibe urgently appealed to Governor Soludo to personally engage in resolving the matter and fostering unity within the community.
Chief Ezeibe further highlighted that the issue of autonomous community status for Awgbu is still pending at the Supreme Court. He stressed that the unification of the community can only be achieved through the intervention of the government.
The recent violent clash has underscored the urgent need for a resolution to the leadership crisis in Awgbu, as it has resulted in loss of life and destruction of property. The community awaits the intervention of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, hoping for a swift and effective resolution to restore peace and harmony among its residents.
As investigations into the incident continue, the authorities are urged to take appropriate measures to maintain law and order, apprehend those responsible for the violence, and prevent further escalation of tensions in the area.
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