Gunmen kill traditional ruler in Ebonyi

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Stock image.

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By Jeff Agbodo, Abakaliki

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ABAKALIKI — Suspected gunmen have killed the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo community in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Eze Josephat Ikegwu.

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Eyewitnesses said the monarch was shot through the window of his bedroom on Tuesday night while he was at home with his wife.

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Sources indicated that the attack occurred around 10 p.m. when the assailants reportedly stormed his residence and opened fire from outside the building.

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Preliminary information suggests that the incident may be linked to an internal crisis within the community, although authorities have yet to confirm the motive.

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The Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, Ikechukwu Ogbuofia, confirmed the killing, describing it as unfortunate.

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“Yes, I have heard of it. It is an unfortunate incident. I was told they shot him through the window in his room,” he said.

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The Ebonyi State Police Command also confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, said an investigation has commenced.

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“We have received a report of the incident, and the police have launched an investigation with a view to apprehending and prosecuting those involved,” he said.

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The killing comes barely one month after the death of another traditional ruler in the state, Francis Igwe, who was abducted in Ikwo Local Government Area.

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Igwe was reportedly kidnapped on his way to church and later died from injuries sustained while in captivity. His body was recovered days after the incident and deposited in a mortuary.

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Police authorities had earlier announced the arrest of nine suspects in connection with that case.

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