A violent communal clash has reportedly claimed multiple lives in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, with the abduction of a married couple escalating concerns across the region.
The conflict, said to be between Ezza and Ishiagu (Ihe) communities, stemmed from a lingering dispute over farmland boundaries. Eyewitnesses and community sources revealed that tensions flared when an Ishiagu native attempting to fetch pig feed during a burial ceremony was confronted by local youths.
What began as a minor disagreement quickly escalated. According to residents, a confrontation resulted in an injury, which provoked retaliation — including the burning of a house and the alleged killing of several individuals. In the chaos, a husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Lazrous Igboke, were reportedly abducted by unidentified assailants.
Confirming the development, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbonna Aja, Chairman of Ivo Local Government Area, disclosed that he had intervened by visiting the police to appeal for the release of those arrested during the crisis. He emphasized that while the initial disagreement may have been personal, it was later hijacked by criminal elements seeking to create unrest.
“We have verified that two people have been abducted, and I’m calling for their immediate release. Communities must avoid resorting to violence and instead embrace peace and coexistence,” Aja stated.
He condemned the destruction and called on residents from both sides to refrain from further violence, warning that law enforcement will not hesitate to clamp down on anyone instigating conflict.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the abduction of the couple and noted that while a rescue mission was launched, only a piece of clothing believed to belong to one of the victims was recovered.
“At this stage, we have no confirmed fatalities,” Ukandu said, “but investigations are ongoing to uncover the root causes and bring those responsible to justice.”
This incident adds to a series of violent outbreaks in Ebonyi linked to land disputes, with past confrontations also resulting in casualties and widespread displacement.
Authorities are now calling for calm and urging traditional rulers, youth leaders, and stakeholders to foster dialogue and cooperation to prevent further bloodshed in the region.
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