Six former warlords in Ebonyi State are currently facing prosecution for allegedly inciting violence and unrest, despite being granted amnesty by Governor Francis Nwifuru. These individuals are part of over 200 ex-militants who had previously received clemency in a peace initiative aimed at ending longstanding communal conflicts in the region.
The disclosure was made by the Ebonyi State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Ben Odo, during a press briefing in Abakaliki.
Governor Nwifuru had earlier extended amnesty to over 150 detainees connected to the Effium–Ezza Effium conflict in Ohaukwu Local Government Area—an area previously plagued by communal clashes. An additional 51 individuals from Ekoli (Edda LGA) and Biase (Cross River State) were also pardoned after a violent border dispute that resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread property destruction.
However, some of the beneficiaries have reportedly returned to criminal activity, triggering concern from security agencies and community leaders.
“Amnesty does not mean immunity from prosecution,” Dr. Odo clarified. “Those who received pardon but went ahead to perpetrate further crimes have been apprehended and are currently being charged. We have already begun legal proceedings against six of them.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law: “Anyone who undermines peace efforts will face arrest, trial, and appropriate sentencing.”
This crackdown signals the state’s resolve to maintain order and ensure that peace-building efforts are not sabotaged by repeat offenders.
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