On April 19, arsonists set fire to the palace of the late traditional ruler of Umuezeokaoha community in Ebonyi State, Eze Igboke Ewa, just three days before his scheduled burial. Ewa had been fatally shot by gunmen during the 2023 election period, with his assailants invading his compound and shooting him multiple times at night.
Following the tragic incident, authorities arrested several individuals in connection with the murder, and the monarch’s body was taken to the morgue. State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the palace fire, stating that investigations were ongoing.
Despite the setback, the monarch’s family has resolved to proceed with the burial arrangements, which were originally planned for the upcoming weekend. Despite the challenges, family members, speaking anonymously, revealed that the preparations for the burial are nearing completion.
