Ebonyi government orders demolition of shrines in Amasiri community over violent land dispute with Okporojo, enforcing curfew and sanctions

The Ebonyi State government has ordered the destruction of all shrines and deities in the Amasiri community following its role in a violent land dispute with neighbouring Okporojo in the Edda Local Government Area.

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Governor Nnachi Nwifuru issued the directive in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, on Friday, following an enlarged state security meeting.

The renewed dispute between the communities led to several deaths, extensive property destruction, and gruesome violence, including the beheading of four victims, whose severed heads were taken by the attackers.

Nwifuru had earlier imposed sanctions on Amasiri, including the sacking of political appointees, dethronement of traditional rulers, school closures, and a curfew.

He stated that punitive measures would remain until the severed heads are recovered and the perpetrators apprehended.

The governor directed community stakeholders to identify the locations of shrines and deities to security agencies for demolition.

He also announced the formation of a 19-member committee, chaired by State Commissioner for Border and Conflict Resolution, Prof. Paul Nwobashi, to demarcate the disputed boundary between Amasiri and Okporojo.

The panel includes the surveyor general and the commissioner for lands and survey.

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“The curfew imposed on the Amasiri community remains in force until the severed heads of the victims of the Okporojo killings are recovered,” the statement added, underscoring the government’s commitment to justice and restoration of order.