The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, has dismantled both the political and traditional leadership structures of the Amasiri clan in Afikpo Local Government Area after a violent communal land dispute claimed three lives.
The governor announced the decision on Sunday during a visit to Okporojo village in the Oso Edda community, where the victims were killed, while another person reportedly died after sustaining injuries during the incident.
Reports indicated that the attack was allegedly carried out by individuals from the Ndukwe community in Amasiri, Afikpo LGA.
While addressing residents, Governor Nwifuru ordered the immediate removal of all traditional rulers in Amasiri and directed that their staffs of office be retrieved. He also dismissed all political office holders from the clan, including commissioners and other government appointees.
The governor explained that the decision followed repeated but unsuccessful efforts by the state government to resolve the dispute peacefully.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Nwifuru described the situation as heartbreaking and unexpected, stressing that the state would not tolerate actions that undermine public order.
He assured the Okporojo autonomous community that those responsible for the violence would face justice and urged residents to remain calm, promising that the government would take decisive action to restore peace.
The governor also raised concern over reports that the unrest had caused panic in neighbouring communities, including Akpoha, where residents allegedly blocked roads out of fear of further attacks.
According to him, the conflict had persisted for some time despite several interventions, boundary clarifications, and agreements, but had now escalated to a dangerous level.
As part of immediate measures, Nwifuru announced the dissolution of all development union executives and village leadership structures in Amasiri, withdrew the recognition of traditional rulers, and removed all government appointees from the area.
The incident reportedly occurred on January 29, 2026, when armed attackers stormed Okporojo village, destroying properties and forcing residents to flee. Videos circulating online showed houses set ablaze as residents appealed to the state government and security agencies for urgent intervention.
