Anambra killings not targeted at Ebonyi indigenes — Police

The Police Command in Anambra State has clarified that the recent killing of 10 persons in Ogboji community, Orumba-South Local Government Area (LGA), was not targeted at indigenes of Ebonyi State.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Tochukwu Ikenga made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Awka, revealing that the Commissioner of Police (CP), Ikioye Orutugu, personally led a joint security investigative team comprising police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security agencies to the scene.

The CP described the attack as a cowardly act by common enemies of the state and confirmed the arrest of a male suspect, Sunday Mbanu, who is currently assisting with investigations.

During a meeting with community stakeholders, including the Traditional Prime Minister and President General of Ogboji community, it was disclosed that the killings stemmed from a leadership dispute within the Association of Ebonyi State indigenes residing in the area.

The factional leadership of the association had previously lodged complaints to the President General without involving security agencies, and attempts to resolve the dispute through Alternative Dispute Resolution escalated to violence.

The son of the landlord where the attack occurred confirmed that one of the victims was a tenant on the compound, with details under further investigation.