By CHARLES IWUOHA

Apex Igbo Socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on the Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, to take immediate action in bringing the killers of Ebonyi indigenes residing in the state to justice to avert reprisal.

Thirteen indigenes of Ebonyi State had on June 30, 2025, during their monthly peaceful gathering in Ogboji, in Orumba South Local Government Area of the state, met their untimely death at the hands of unknown gunmen.

Ohanaeze vehemently condemned the shocking and senseless violence inflicted upon members of the Ebonyi State Welfare Organization, describing the massacre as a barbaric and provocative act.

According to the group, it represents a deliberate attack on the essence of our humanity, intended to foster hatred, perpetuate violence, and undermine the fragile peace that has long characterized the relationship between the states of Anambra and Ebonyi.

In a joint statement issued on Wednesday by the factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Thompson Ohia, National Spokesperson, Ohanaeze stated that in light of this atrocity declared four days of mourning to honour the victims whose lives were tragically cut short.

The pan Igbo Organisation noted that it is imperative for the Anambra State Government to urgently identify the perpetrators responsible for this grievous act and bring them to justice.

The statement further said that the lack of immediate condemnation from Governor Soludo's office is alarming and unacceptable, saying that over 48 hours have passed since this insidious massacre, yet the silence from the Anambra State Government remains deafening.

"Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands a clear and forthright response from Governor Soludo. The Igbo people require justice and a thorough explanation regarding the atrocities committed against our brethren from Ebonyi State residing in Anambra. Your failure to act not only raises questions about your leadership but may also breed discontent and mistrust among the populace.

"We commend Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State for his swift and commendable response in seeking justice and fostering collaboration with the Anambra State Government. This unity is essential for healing and restoring faith in our leadership.

"Governor Soludo, let it be known that Ohanaeze stands resolutely behind your government in your pursuit of truth and justice regarding the tragic deaths of innocent Nigerians. As the Chief Security Officer of Anambra State, it is your constitutional duty to ensure that those who engage in violence are brought to justice and held accountable for their actions.

"Furthermore, we cannot ignore the precarious state of peace between Anambra and Ebonyi. There are forces?both external and internal?seeking to exacerbate tensions between our two states by inciting conflict and instigating reprisals attacks against Anambra natives in Ebonyi state. It is crucial for you to address these concerns transparently and publicly, particularly to the people of Ebonyi. Your words can help to calm frayed nerves and foster understanding.

"We encourage you to pay a condolence visit to the bereaved families of the victims in Anambra, as well as to meet with Governor Nwifuru. Such gestures will not only demonstrate compassion but will also serve to dispel false narratives that may lead to inter-state conflicts.

"The onus is upon you, Governor Soludo, to act decisively in the face of this tragedy. The collective aspirations of the Igbo people hinge upon your leadership and your commitment to justice. The time for action is now; let us unite in the pursuit of peace, justice, and the safeguarding of our shared values.?

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