Two persons, Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, have been killed in a leadership tussle in Iyanomo Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Edo State.
This was contained in a press statement by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who said the state government has launched an investigation into the murder of the duo.
The deceased were murdered last week at the height of the clash between the warring factions over who controls the community.
According to the statement, the investigation is being spearheaded by the Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, in collaboration with security agencies and community leaders.
On Saturday, the investigative team was led by the Government House Chief Security Officer, CSP Osaro Roberts, and the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, Okoh Saturday, to the community to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the killings of Enomwa and Imaghodo.
Addressing the community during the visit, the Secretary of the Special Security Squad, John Izegaebe, condemned the act of violence and reiterated the government’s resolve to stamp out cultism, kidnapping, and communal clashes in Edo.
He said, “Our findings so far point to a leadership tussle between two rival factions in Iyanomo, which degenerated into violence and ultimately claimed the lives of two men.
“This is unacceptable. The governor has directed us to ensure that all those involved in this heinous act are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. No one is above the law.
“The government condoles with the families of the victims and assures them that justice will be served. At the same time, we are sending a very strong message to community leaders: disputes must be resolved legally, not through violence.
“Governor Okpebholo has zero tolerance for crime, and anyone who foments unrest in Edo communities will face the full wrath of the law.”
Residents of Iyanomo Community, who received the team with relief, expressed appreciation to the Governor and the security squad for their swift response. They appealed for continued government presence in the community to forestall further bloodshed and ensure lasting peace.
