Land dispute claims six lives in Ebonyi warring communities  

Not less than six persons have so far been killed following a land tussle between the people of Umuobor, Akaeze, and Ogwor, Ishiagu, in Ivo Local Government Area (LGA) of Ebonyi State.

Two decomposing bodies were recovered in the bush where they had been dumped.

The Guardian gathered that the two neighbors, who have been at war for over five decades over a fertile land called Elueke, have lost many lives and had properties destroyed during the conflict.

The land tussle became intractable four months ago, leading to more killings, abductions, and destruction.

Reacting to the incident, the state police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, said that although the command had not received any official report of the incident from Ivo Police Division, someone from Ivo Local Government had called to inform him about the situation.

Last weekend, a truck driver from Imo State, who was plying the Ishiagu/Okigwe Expressway, was killed on the Ayaragu axis of the expressway by suspected warlords.

On Tuesday this week, four persons were killed by the warlords. Two decomposing bodies were also recovered and handed over to the military peacekeepers on the Akaeze/Ishiagu Expressway.

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In an interaction, a source from one of the warring communities, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said, “Just yesterday, a total of four persons were killed in Arbor Akaeze. An additional two bodies were recovered today and taken to the army checkpoint in Akaeze.”

“The state government’s silence and remote actions have continued to fuel the situation, resulting in more killings, maiming, and abductions of innocent people from Akaeze and Ishiagu communities, as well as non-Ebonyi residents.

“We also wish to appreciate our stakeholders for their efforts in keeping the numbers on the increase.

“It’s pertinent to appreciate all those who have contributed handsomely towards the orchestration of more crises, for their grave quest.

“Posterity shall be kind to everyone. Viewers’ discretion is advised.”