Communal clash in Ebonyi claims one life, leaves trail of destruction

Judith Echefu, Abakaliki

A communal clash in Ndieguzu Agalegu Omege community, Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, turned deadly on Saturday night, resulting in the loss of one life and the destruction of at least 10 houses.

It was also gathered that many people were injured after suspected hoodlums attacked the community.

The crisis allegedly erupted between the Omege Alalagu and Ukwuinyima communities over a fight that took place in November 2024, when a woman who was allegedly raped and killed was buried.

According to a community source who pleaded anonymity, “More than 10 houses and property worth millions of Naira have been burnt to ashes. The government needs to do something.”

Police Public Relations Officer in the State, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed on Sunday, that one person was killed in the incident.

“Two youths from the Omege Alalagu and Ukwuinyima community fought,t and one from Omege was stabbed who however died later in the hospital.

“His death resulted in members of his community attacking Omege and burning mud houses with thatch roofs”.

“The police stepped up to stop them from causing and inflicting more harm and damage. The crisis has been curtailed at the moment.”

The Police spokesperson said operatives of the command were maintaining order in the area and also launched an investigation.

He said the man who stabbed the dead victim had also been apprehended and arrested.