Two killed in Iyanomo community leadership crisis. Two people have been killed in a leadership crisis in the Iyanomo community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Council of Edo State.
The victims, identified as Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, lost their lives last week during a violent clash between rival factions vying for control of the community.
Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, in a statement, said the state government has launched an investigation into the incident.
According to the statement, the probe is being led by the Edo State Special Security Squad, “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” in collaboration with security agencies and community leaders.
Over the weekend, the investigative team, led by the Government House Chief Security Officer, CSP Osaro Roberts, and the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, Okoh Saturday, visited the community to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the killings.
Addressing residents during the visit, Secretary of the Special Security Squad, John Izegaebe, condemned the violence and reiterated the government’s resolve to stamp out cultism, kidnapping, and communal clashes in the state.
He said: “Our findings so far point to a leadership tussle between two rival factions in Iyanomo, which degenerated into violence and ultimately claimed the lives of two men. This is unacceptable. The governor has directed us to ensure that all those involved in this heinous act are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. No one is above the law.
“The government condoled with the families of the victims and assured them that justice will be served. At the same time, we are sending a very strong message to community leaders: disputes must be resolved legally, not through violence. Governor Okpebholo has zero tolerance for crime, and anyone who foments unrest in Edo communities will face the full wrath of the law.”
Residents of Iyanomo, who welcomed the security team with relief, expressed appreciation to the governor and the task force for their swift intervention.
