Man Killed, Homes Burnt in Abia Community Days Before Wedding

Okon-Aku community in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State was thrown into turmoil on Friday after a youth, Mr. Igwe Akuma of Ndi Uma compound, was killed during a local dispute.

Following the killing, several houses, vehicles, and other properties were set on fire by youths in the community.

In a statement on Saturday, the Udumeze of Ohafia, Ezie Ohamoha Awa Orji Udonsi, alongside the Ohafia Council of Monarchs, condemned both the murder and the subsequent arson. The statement highlighted that Mr. Akuma had been preparing for his wedding, scheduled in the coming days, before his death.

“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, extending condolences to the victim’s family. It also stressed that no provocation justifies taking the life of a community member or destroying property, adding that violence is not a way to begin the new year.

The traditional council called for calm between the Ndi Owom and Ndi Uma compounds and confirmed that it was collaborating with security agencies to prevent further escalation.

Abia State Police confirmed the incident. Police Public Relations Officer DSP Maureen Chinaka said the DPO of Ohafia led officers to arrest several suspects and deployed two tactical teams to the area to restore order. The arrested individuals are currently undergoing interrogation.