Ebonyi Government Orders Destruction of Shrines, Deities in Amasiri Following Violent Conflict

Abakaliki – The Ebonyi State government has ordered the demolition of all shrines and deities in Amasiri community, Afikpo Local Government Area, over their alleged involvement in a recent violent clash.

Governor Francis Nwifuru issued the directive in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, on Friday, following an enlarged state security meeting held on Thursday.

The action comes in the wake of renewed land disputes between Amasiri and the neighbouring Okporojo community in Edda LGA, which resulted in multiple deaths and widespread property destruction. The violence escalated tragically when attackers reportedly decapitated four victims, taking their severed heads away.

In response, Governor Nwifuru had earlier imposed sanctions on Amasiri, including the removal of political appointees, dethronement of traditional rulers, school closures, and a community-wide curfew.

The governor has directed community stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies by identifying the locations of shrines and deities slated for demolition.

He also announced the formation of a 19-member committee to demarcate the disputed boundary between Okporojo and Amasiri. The panel, headed by the state Commissioner for Border and Conflict Resolution, Paul Nwobashi, includes the Surveyor General and the Commissioner for Lands and Survey.

“The demarcation is urgent, as both parties have already signed an agreement to resolve the boundary dispute,” the statement said.

Governor Nwifuru further confirmed that the curfew will remain in force until the severed heads of the victims are recovered.