Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has dissolved the entire political and traditional leadership structure of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area and ordered the removal of all government appointees from the area.
The decision followed a violent attack on Okporojo, Oso Edda community in Edda Local Government Area, where four persons were reportedly beheaded, with their heads taken away by the assailants.
Those affected by the directive include members of the State Executive Council, Management Committee members, the Town Union Executive, Village Heads and the community’s traditional ruler, whose certificate of recognition and Staff of Office were withdrawn.
Nwifuru gave the directive on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo, where he addressed residents, community leaders, security agencies and government officials.
The governor said the actions of his administration would be firm but guided by the need to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
“I am particularly very saddened. I have never in my whole life expected this kind of development. It’s quite unfortunate. But as a careful leader, you speak less when you are very angry, and at this very moment, I will speak less. But I want to assure the people of Okporojo autonomous community,” he said.
He also directed all affected appointees to immediately hand over government properties in their possession, including official vehicles, to the Secretary to the State Government.
The directive was contained in a public service announcement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Monday Uzor.