The Ebonyi State Government has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area to produce the remains of four persons reportedly killed and ensure the safe return of four others declared missing following violent clashes linked to a long-standing land dispute.
The directive follows recent attacks on Okporojo Oso Edda village in Edda Local Government Area, which reportedly resulted in loss of lives and displacement of residents.
Governor Francis Nwifuru made the announcement on Monday night after an expanded State Security Council meeting held at the Government House, Centenary City, Abakaliki. The meeting brought together top security officials, traditional rulers, elders, women leaders, and representatives of the affected communities.
According to the governor, the meeting was convened to review the deteriorating security situation in the area and assess steps already taken by security agencies to restore peace and safeguard lives and property.
“This engagement was initiated by security chiefs to address the recurring violence and brief stakeholders on ongoing operations aimed at stabilising the affected communities,” Nwifuru said.
The governor confirmed that investigations by security agencies revealed that four persons were killed, while four others remain unaccounted for, stressing that the government believes those missing may still be alive.
“We are demanding accountability. Four lives were lost, and four persons are still missing. Our expectation is that the missing individuals will be returned alive,” he stated.
Governor Nwifuru also corroborated reports by the Nigerian Army on the discovery of shallow graves in the area, describing the findings as disturbing and unacceptable in a civil society.
While acknowledging that military options were discussed, the governor emphasised that the immediate priority of the state government is to halt further violence, restore law and order, and prevent reprisals.
He warned that tougher sanctions would be imposed on the Amasiri community if the ultimatum is not met within the stipulated timeframe.
“If these conditions are not fulfilled within 72 hours, the government will be compelled to apply stricter measures in line with the law,” he cautioned.
The governor also advised against protests and unlawful demonstrations, noting that such actions could further escalate tensions in disputes involving security breakdowns.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command, CP Adaku Uche-Anya, confirmed that enforcement measures against the Amasiri community would remain in place until all conditions are met.
“The community is expected to account for the victims, ensure the return of the missing persons, and hand over those responsible. Security agencies will sustain operations until compliance is achieved,” she said.
She added that security operatives are still conducting search operations in neighbouring communities affected by the violence.
Speaking on behalf of the Ebonyi State Founding Fathers, High Chief Hyacinth Ikpor said the group supports the government’s approach and remains committed to peaceful resolution.
Similarly, Chairman of the Ebonyi State Elders Council, Engr. Ben Okah, pledged the council’s backing for all peace-building efforts.
Responding on behalf of the Amasiri community, Bishop Kenneth Oko Daniels assured the state government of full compliance with all directives, expressing optimism that calm would soon return.
“We believe peace will be restored as we cooperate fully with the government and security agencies,” he said.
Also reacting, Chief George Ukpai, speaking for the Edda Clan, welcomed the intervention and pledged that his people would avoid any form of retaliation.
“Our confidence has been renewed. We will work with the government to ensure lasting peace,” he said.
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