Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has clarified that the deadly attack on February 2, 2025, at Amagu Nkalaha in Ishielu Local Government Area was carried out by local criminals, not herdsmen, as initially believed.
In a statement following a church service at the Government House Chapel, Governor Nwifuru explained that preliminary investigations by security agencies pointed to the involvement of criminal elements within the community.
“The recent killings at Amagu Nkalaha Community were carried out by some criminal elements from within the community, not herdsmen as earlier alleged,” the governor said. “This is an unfortunate situation.”
The attack, which occurred last Sunday, saw gunmen invade three villages within the Nkalaha community, killing at least 17 people and setting several houses on fire.
In related developments, Governor Nwifuru announced the recall of four commissioners and the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, who had been suspended in November of the previous year. The reinstated officials include Dr. Moses Ekuma (Commissioner for Health), Hon. Chinedum Nkah (Commissioner for Water Resources), Engr. Francis Orie (Commissioner for Housing), and Hon. Uchenna Igwe (Commissioner for Local Government).
Governor Nwifuru also issued a stern warning to contractors handling government projects, urging them to expedite work or face penalties.