Dozens Hospitalized as Tensions Boil Over in Ebonyi-Benue Border Dispute

A power struggle in Ugboenyim, a border community between Ebonyi and Benue States, has left many injured and hospitalized following a violent clash between factions. Ugboenyim, an Izzi-speaking community, falls under Ado Local Government Area in Benue State but is anthropologically linked to Ebonyi.

The conflict, ongoing since 2006, has led to numerous deaths and the destruction of property worth millions. Despite attempts to resolve the crisis, tensions reignited recently, culminating in a violent encounter where residents suffered injuries from weapons including canes, machetes, and firearms. Domestic animals such as goats, native cows, and dogs were killed, while properties were looted.

Some victims, including Mr. Chukwuma Iboko, Benard Ukpa, and Nwofor Chukwuemeka, alleged they were attacked by a group known as the Plan B Club, led by Romanus Ishiali. They claimed they were tied up, flogged, and accused of neglecting communal work, which they insist never took place.

Mrs. Obaleze Eto recounted how her goat, meant for her late child’s burial rites, was forcefully taken by the group. “Romanus came and collected a goat I wanted to use for the burial of my child and left without telling me my offense,” she said. “I had to buy another goat, and the first one has not been returned.”

Chief Omogo Ijere, the village head, accused the Plan B Club of terrorizing the community, leading him to report the matter to the police in Igumale, Benue State. He revealed that after filing the report, he was warned not to return to the community as the group had allegedly armed themselves and blocked access to the area.

In response, Romanus Ishiali denied the allegations, instead accusing Chief Ijere’s faction of looting livestock and crops. He also alleged that Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, the Deputy Chief Whip and representative for Ebonyi North, was sponsoring the opposing faction. Ishiali claimed the senator had offered him money and a motorcycle, which he refused, leading to his removal as the community’s youth leader.

“Our lives are under threat,” Ishiali said. “They want to kill us. Many of us can’t return to the village and are now in Abakaliki for safety. We need the governors of Ebonyi and Benue to intervene before this escalates into an inter-state conflict.”

Senator Nwebonyi dismissed the claims, stating that the Plan B Club members were responsible for crimes in the community, including maiming residents and stealing property. He explained that the police are pursuing the group, which has led them to flee.

“They begged me to suppress the matter, but I refused because their actions were evil,” the senator said. “Even my cousin involved in their crimes must face the law. Now they are running and trying to distract attention while the authorities seek justice.”