By; MKPUMA ENYINNA, Abakaliki
Sequel to the rifts and imbroglio that ignited Ekoli–Edda Community in Afikpo South LGA of Ebonyi State on December 26, 2022, which led to the loss of three lives and property, Ebonyi State Police Command has embarked on a scrupulous intelligence-led investigation into the crime to fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly act, which has led to the arrest of 26 suspects who were rounded up in the course of investigation.
According to the Police Public Relations officer in Ebonyi State, SP Chris Anyanwu, while addressing journalists, the exhibits recovered include, one AK 47 rifle and its live ammunition, two Pump-Action rifles, one dane gun, one village gong, one trumpet and three AK-47 magazines.
He said deceased persons include, Esien Kalu Egwu, Insp Festus Akpan, Emy Orji.
He further noted,“ that it is crystal clear that the supremacy tussle raging between Hon. Stanley Okoro Emegha and Hon. Eni Uduma Chima is the cause of the ill-fated December 26th conflict at Ekoli-Edda, Afikpo South of Ebonyi State.
“Fourteen out of the entire suspects arrested will be arraigned immediately in court as prima facie case of conspiracy, Armed Robbery, Arson, Unlawful possession and malicious Damage have been established against them.”
The Commissioner of Police Ebonyi state Police Command, CP Aliyu Garba, also warned youth against from all communities and clans in Ebonyi state to learn positive lessons from the ill-fated incident of December 26th that befell Ekoli–Edda and guard against the recurrence.
It would be recalled that Ebonyi State Government after their EXCO meeting last week, noted that statements did not indict the duo of Eni Uduma and Stanley Okoroemegha of any complicity in the needless attack.
EXCO therefore, directed that a Peace and Reconciliation Committee be setup in the afflicted area.
“EXCO received a briefing on the police interim report on the ugly incident that happened in Edda , Afikpo South Local Government Area and the governor’s directive on those involved in the unfortunate mayhem that led to the loss of lives.
“Exco noted the police report which revealed that the culprits had been apprehended and would soon be charged to court.
“Exco however, noted the fact that the statements from the suspects did not indict the duo of “Barr Eni Uduma Chima and Chief Stanley Okoroemegha of any complicity in the needless attack.
“Exco directed that a Peace and Reconciliatory Committee be set up in the afflicted area,” he said.
