Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
National Assembly members from Ebonyi Central Senatorial zone have condemned in strong terms the recent attack on Nkalaha Amegu in Ishielu Local Government Area of the state by suspected herdsmen.
The Lawmakers, Senator Ken Eze representing Ebonyi central zone; and Joseph Nwobashi; representing Ezza North/Ishielu federal constituency made the condemnation in separate statements they issued on Tuesday.
The community was attacked on Sunday by suspected herdsmen who are believed to be on reprisal attack for the alleged killing of their cows by some community members.
In an motion laden statement, the Senator described the attack as devilish, unfortunate and vowed to ensure that the perpetrators were brought to book.
According to him: “It is with profound sadness that I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in the devastating and deadly attack on the people of Amagu-Nkalaha in Ishielu LGA, Ebonyi Central Senatorial District of Ebonyi State, yesterday, that claimed many lives and properties with many others currently receiving treatments in hospitals.
“This is a moment of grief for us all and I share in your pains. I’m deeply saddened and condemn in strongest terms this dastardly act. I want to assure the people of Amagu-Nkalaha that we’re together in this difficult time and together we shall navigate it.”
Senator Eze noted that the tragic incident underscored the urgent need for intelligence gathering on the side of security agencies to forestall dastardly acts in the society.
“This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for a heightened consciousness on intelligence gathering on the side of our security agencies and personnels to identify and nip in the bud such a dastardly act before it happens. I therefore call on all relevant security agencies to bring to book the perpetrators of this heinous crime.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I once again extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the departed souls and pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear the painful loss and speedy recovery to the injured,” Senator Eze said.
He commended the state Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for his urgent intervention to forestall further attacks and restoring normalcy in the area.
Senator Eze also called on the people of Ishielu council area to be calm and peaceful as every necessary mechanisms are already in place to ensure that justice prevailed.
Mr Nwobashi described the attack as a barbaric and unacceptable act which must not be tolerated.
He, however, called on the Federal Government and the Ebonyi State Government to take immediate steps to strengthen security in Ishielu LGA and other vulnerable areas to prevent a recurrence of such tragic incidents.
“Our communities must not continue to live under the threat of violence and bloodshed.
”With a heavy heart, I condemn in the strongest terms the senseless attack on the peaceful people of Amagu community in Nkalaha, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State by suspected Fulani herdsmen in the early hours of February 2, 2025.
“It is heartbreaking that yet again, our people have been subjected to unwarranted violence, leaving families in grief and our community in fear.
The Lawmaker noted that no individual or group has the right to take the lives of others or disrupt the peace and security of any community.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for a quick recovery for those who sustained injuries.
“I call on the security agencies to swiftly investigate this attack, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure that justice is served.
“Our people deserve to live without fear, and it is the responsibility of the government and security forces to guarantee the safety of all citizens.
“I stand in solidarity with the people of Nkalaha during this difficult time and assure them that I will do everything within my legislative capacity to ensure their safety and well-being.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may justice prevail,” he said.
