Tension has once again gripped Ebonyi State after suspected armed men from Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government reportedly invaded Okporojo Idima, Oso Edda, in Edda Local Government Area, killing a local farmer.
The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, August 26, claimed the life of Mr. Dike Nnachi, who was allegedly beheaded on his farmland, with his killers fleeing the scene with his severed head.
This incident marks yet another eruption of violence in the protracted land conflict between the two neighbouring communities. Barely four months ago, a similar invasion left at least four people, including a pregnant woman and her 12-year-old son, dead, while properties worth millions of naira were destroyed.
Residents say the latest killing has heightened fear in Oso Edda, casting doubt on the effectiveness of peace talks initiated by Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration through the Ministry of Border Peace and Conflict Resolution.
Community leaders have since called for urgent government intervention, warning that continued inaction could escalate the violence and endanger more lives and property.
The land feud, which dates back years, pits Ndukwe community in Amasiri against Okporojo in Edda. Previous administrations had released a white paper based on recommendations from a government panel to resolve the crisis, but implementation has stalled.
As hostilities deepen, many residents have abandoned the Amasiri road, preferring longer routes through Afikpo town out of fear of renewed attacks.
