Suspected armed men have murdered the traditional ruler of Ishinkwor community in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, HRH Jesophat Ikegwu.
The incident was said to have occurred late Wednesday at the monarch’s residence, where the attackers allegedly fired shots through a window, killing him on the spot.
Residents said the assailants invaded the palace under yet-to-be-determined circumstances, sparking fear across the community.
The Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, Ikechukwu Ogbofia, who confirmed the development, condemned the act and described it as troubling.
He noted that security operatives had launched an investigation into the killing and appealed to residents to remain calm as efforts were ongoing to track down the perpetrators.
Similarly, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Ebonyi State Command, SP Joshua Ukandu, also confirmed the incident, stating that investigations had commenced.
The latest killing brings to five the number of traditional rulers reportedly killed in the state in recent times.
In a related development last month, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area was abducted and later found dead, with his body reportedly burnt.
Security agencies had earlier announced the arrest of about nine suspects in connection with the case, but updates on their prosecution have yet to be made public.
