The Ebonyi Unity Forum in Anambra State has condemned two separate killings in Aguata Local Government Area, calling for thorough investigations and urging residents to avoid reprisals.
The incidents involved the alleged killing of 23-year-old Mmesoma Umeorini in Uga by her former boyfriend and the reported killing of an 18-year-old boy by his father in Ori-Eri.
In a statement issued on Monday, the forum’s President-General, Chief Moses Ofoke, and Secretary, Aloke Stanley, urged the Anambra State Police Command and other security agencies to ensure that anyone found responsible is prosecuted.
The group said its representatives had visited the State Criminal Investigation Department to engage authorities over the incidents. It also held an emergency meeting with traditional and community leaders to address concerns over the reported stigmatisation of Ebonyi indigenes.
The forum stressed that the alleged actions of individuals should not be used to judge or discriminate against the wider Ebonyi community.
It expressed condolences to the bereaved families and urged residents, youth groups and community leaders to maintain peace, avoid spreading unverified information and allow the authorities to handle the cases.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence between Ebonyi indigenes and their host communities, insisting that justice should be pursued without further inflaming tensions.
