Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has ordered the dethronement of traditional rulers from Amasiri Community in Afikpo Local Government Area following a brutal attack that claimed the lives of four persons in Okporojo, Oso Edda, Edda Local Government Area of the state.
The governor announced the withdrawal of the monarchs’ certificates during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the troubled community, describing the incident as a grave failure of traditional leadership and community responsibility.
Addressing residents, security agencies, and community stakeholders, Governor Nwifuru expressed deep anger and disappointment over the violent incident, stating that such an act was incompatible with the values and traditions of Ebonyi people.
“I am particularly saddened. I never imagined that this level of brutality could occur in Ebonyi State. It is most unfortunate,” the governor said.
He noted that traditional institutions are entrusted with the sacred duty of preserving peace, resolving disputes, and safeguarding lives, stressing that any monarch who fails in this responsibility would be held accountable.
According to the governor, the crisis did not emerge suddenly, as government had previously intervened through dialogue, boundary demarcations, and reconciliation meetings involving the affected communities.
“This matter did not start today. Boundaries were traced and agreements reached, yet they were repeatedly violated,” he said, lamenting what he described as persistent disregard for peaceful resolutions.
Governor Nwifuru warned that violence would never be tolerated under his administration, declaring that the state would demonstrate its authority in the interest of justice and lasting peace.
“The government of Ebonyi State will show the perpetrators what it means to be governed. The lives lost will not be in vain,” he assured.
He urged residents to refrain from reprisals, cautioning that further violence would only deepen the crisis and bring more suffering to innocent people.
Announcing the dethronement, the governor stated unequivocally that the certificates of the affected traditional rulers had been withdrawn with immediate effect, describing the action as a necessary step to restore order and reinforce accountability within the traditional institution.
Reaffirming his commitment to peace in Edda Local Government Area, Governor Nwifuru said sustained government intervention would continue until stability is fully restored.
“As far as I am your governor, this kind of lawlessness will never happen again,” he said.
He emphasized that the decision was not driven by bias but by a commitment to truth, justice, and the sanctity of human life.
“I don’t side anybody. It is only the truth that can bring peace,” the governor concluded.
