Communal crisis claims two lives in Edo

… as govt vows justice

Two people in Iyamomo Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area in Edo state have been confirmed dead, following an alleged communal crisis in the area.

It was learnt that the victims, identified as Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, were gruesomely killed by one of the warring factions last week.

Recall that in recent times, the community have been engulfed in a serious crisis over who to be appointed as Odionwere (Village Head), leading to several attacks and counterattacks by both factions.

Following the recent killings in the Community, the Edo State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the gruesome murder of two young men, vowing to bring the killers to justice.

The investigation is being spearheaded by the State’s Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, in collaboration with security agencies and the community leaders.

The operation led by the Government House Chief Security Officer (CSO), CSP Osaro Roberts, and the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, Okoh Saturday, visited the troubled community at the weekend to ascertain the true circumstances surrounding the killings o Enomwa and Imaghodo.

Addressing the community during the visit, the Secretary of the Special Security Squad, John Izegaebe, condemned the killings and reiterated the government’s resolve to stamp out cultism, kidnapping, and communal clashes in Edo.

“Our findings so far point to a leadership tussle between two rival factions in Iyanomo, which degenerated into violence and ultimately claimed the lives of two men.

“This is unacceptable. The Governor has directed us to ensure that all those involved in this heinous act are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. No one is above the law.

“We are sending a very strong message to community leaders: disputes must be resolved legally, not through violence.

“Governor Okpebholo has zero tolerance for crime, and anyone who foments unrest in Edo communities will face the full wrath of the law,” Izegaebe said.

Residents of Iyanomo Community, who received the team with relief, expressed appreciation to the Governor and the security squad for their swift response.

They appealed for continued government presence in the community to forestall further bloodshed and ensure lasting peace.

Izegaebe, who on behalf of the state government condole with the families of the victims assured that the investigation will be thorough, impartial, and far-reaching, with a firm commitment that the perpetrators of the killings will be brought to book, no matter how highly placed.

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