Tension has gripped Okon-Aku community in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State following the killing of a young man just days before his planned wedding, an incident that sparked violence and the burning of properties in the area.
The victim, identified as Igwe Akuma from the Ndi Uma compound, was killed on Friday during a clash that erupted in the community. In the aftermath of the incident, youths reportedly set several houses, vehicles and other properties belonging to some residents on fire.
The Udumeze of Ohafia, led by Ezie Ohamoha Awa Orji Udonsi, alongside the Ohafia Council of Monarchs, condemned the killing and the destruction of property in a statement issued on Saturday.
According to the traditional rulers, Akuma was preparing to get married in a few days before he was murdered. The council described the killing as “gruesome and unjustifiable,” stressing that no provocation could warrant the taking of a life.
“The Udumeze condemns in its entirety the gruesome murder of a young Ohafian who was said to be getting married in a few days,” the statement said, while commiserating with the family of the deceased.
The council added that violence and arson were not acceptable ways to begin the new year, calling for restraint among the feuding Ndi Owom and Ndi Uma compounds. It also said efforts were ongoing, in collaboration with security agencies, to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Abia State Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said police officers from the Ohafia Divisional Headquarters had arrested some suspects in connection with the killing.
She disclosed that two police tactical teams had been deployed to the community to restore and maintain law and order, adding that those arrested were currently being interrogated as investigations continue.