Francis Nwifuru, governor of Ebonyi state, has dismantled both the political and traditional leadership structures in Amasiri clan, Afikpo local government area, following the killing of three people during a communal land dispute.
The governor announced the decision on Sunday during a visit to Okporojo village in the Oso Edda community, where the victims were reportedly attacked and beheaded, while another later died from injuries sustained in the violence.
The clash was allegedly between residents of Okporojo and individuals from the neighbouring Ndukwe community, both within Amasiri.
While addressing community members, Nwifuru ordered the immediate removal of all traditional rulers in Amasiri and directed that their certificates of office be withdrawn. He also dismissed all political appointees from the area, including commissioners and other government officials.
The governor said his action followed repeated failed efforts by the state government to resolve the conflict peacefully, noting that the situation had reached a breaking point.
He expressed deep sadness over the incident, describing it as unfortunate and unacceptable. Nwifuru assured residents that the state government would ensure justice for the victims and warned that those responsible would face the full weight of the law.
He urged residents to remain calm, stressing that the government would not tolerate acts of violence or lawlessness. According to him, decisive action was necessary to restore order and reaffirm the authority of the state.
Nwifuru also raised concerns that the crisis had created fear beyond Amasiri, citing reports that residents of Akpoha community blocked roads over fears of a possible spillover of violence.
He explained that the dispute had lingered for years despite several meetings, boundary verifications, and agreements, but said the latest killings marked a dangerous escalation.
“As a result, all village leadership structures and development union executives in Amasiri are hereby dissolved. All traditional rulers are removed, and all government appointees from the area are relieved of their duties,” the governor said.
He added that the state government would take further steps to prevent a recurrence and demonstrate that no community is above the law.
