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NwifuruSanctions2026 as Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru dissolves Amasiri leadership, withdraws traditional ruler’s recognition, and sacks appointees after four residents were killed in renewed Edda-Amasiri conflict.
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has imposed sweeping sanctions on the leadership and government appointees of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area, following the gruesome killing of four residents of Okporojo village in Oso Edda community, Edda Local Government Area.
The governor announced the measures on Saturday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okporojo, where suspected Amasiri warlords allegedly launched a deadly attack that led to beheadings, arson, and abductions.
Condemning the violence, Nwifuru described the incident as a tragic escalation of a long-standing boundary dispute, which had previously undergone reconciliation efforts that failed due to lack of genuine commitment by the affected communities.
Sweeping Sanctions Announced
As part of decisive measures to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed, Governor Nwifuru announced:
- Immediate dissolution of the Amasiri Development Union executive
- Withdrawal of the certificate of recognition of the traditional ruler of Amasiri
- Removal of all village heads across Amasiri autonomous communities
- Dismissal of all government appointees from the area, including commissioners, management committee members, and aides
Call for Calm and Assurance of Support
Addressing grieving residents of Okporojo, Nwifuru urged them to remain calm and avoid retaliation, assuring them of the state government’s full support.
The governor expressed deep concern over the extent of destruction, noting that the burnt homes and poor living conditions reflected years of neglect and insecurity. He pledged to return within one year to assess improvements in security and development.
Commendation for Security Agencies
Governor Nwifuru commended the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security formations for their “extraordinary and noble efforts” in pursuing the attackers.
He revealed that some operatives trekked nine kilometres through difficult terrain to track down suspects and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
Warning Against Escalation
While stressing that his administration does not take sides in communal conflicts, Nwifuru warned the Amasiri community to reflect on its actions, insisting that violence only worsens existing challenges.
He also expressed concern that the neighbouring Akpoha community had blocked major roads over fears of reprisal attacks, warning that the crisis was nearing a “point of no return” if provocations continued.
Commitment to Justice and Peace
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, peace, and security across Ebonyi State, stressing that no individual or community would be shielded from the consequences of actions that threaten public order.
Reports indicate that those affected by the sanctions include Professor Amari Omaka, State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, alongside traditional rulers, town union presidents, and other government appointees from Amasiri.