Thousands evacuate homes as community faces possible crackdown after alleged involvement in Okporojo killings
Thousands of residents of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State fled their homes on Wednesday, carrying personal belongings, following the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum issued by the state government.
The directive demanded that Amasiri produce the severed heads of three people killed during an attack on Okporojo community in Oso Edda, Edda LGA, allegedly carried out by suspected assailants from Amasiri. The community was also ordered to return four individuals reportedly abducted in Okporojo village, including Augustine Ite from Akpoha, who was allegedly killed and buried in a shallow grave.
Governor Francis Nwifuru issued the ultimatum after a high-level security meeting at the New Government House, Abakaliki, attended by service chiefs, the State Founding Fathers, Elders Council members, and local leaders from Afikpo and Edda LGAs. He warned that non-compliance would attract more stringent government action.
Mass Evacuations and Humanitarian Concerns
Our correspondent observed that women, children, and elderly residents were among those leaving Amasiri, while many men and youths reportedly stayed behind to safeguard properties. Residents fleeing sought refuge in Afikpo town or crossed into neighboring Cross River State, turning parts of the community into a “ghost town,” according to social media reports from indigenes.
Many families face acute hardship, with schools, churches, and markets closed for over a week, and restricted movement limiting access to food. Nursing mother Charity lamented the suffering of innocent residents: “Our children are paying for the actions of a few individuals. The government should go after the masterminds.”
Business owners have also been affected. Mr. Chimaobi Kalu, a trader from Abia State, said commercial activities have ground to a halt, forcing relocation of families and businesses, while those remaining struggle to protect their property amid rising tensions.
Calls for Justice Tempered With Mercy
Residents appealed to Governor Nwifuru, the Founding Fathers, and the Elders Council to focus on apprehending the perpetrators while ensuring innocent residents are protected. Security agencies, including the military, continue to patrol the area, but hunger and fear of reprisals are escalating tensions.
As of the time of reporting, the Ebonyi State Government had not issued any additional directive, with the 72-hour ultimatum expected to expire later Wednesday evening.
