Ben Ezechime, Enugu
Two brothers have been killed, while several houses, vehicles, and other valuable property were set ablaze at Umuchigbo-Nike in Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State following violent clashes between two rival groups over a lingering leadership tussle in the community.
The incident, which occurred during the week, prompted the intervention of the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Giwa, who visited the area to assess the situation.
CP Giwa, after inspecting the level of destruction, expressed deep concern over what he described as “avoidable and senseless violence.” He directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to conduct a thorough and discreet investigation into the incident.
He also ordered a sustained manhunt for the fleeing suspects, assuring law-abiding residents that all those found culpable would be brought to justice.
The Commissioner further urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and members of the warring factions to remain calm, embrace dialogue, and support the police in ensuring that peace is fully restored to the community.
In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Enugu State Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, said preliminary investigation revealed that the violence stemmed from a prolonged leadership crisis in the community.
“The murder of the two brothers on October 29, 2025, by one faction, and a retaliatory attack by the opposing faction the following day, led to the destruction and burning of five residential buildings and several vehicles,” Ndukwe stated.
He added that 27 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend others still at large.
Ndukwe also confirmed that normalcy had been restored in the area, with police operatives maintaining a strong presence to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
