Gunmen Assassinate Ebonyi Monarch in Midnight Attack

Suspected gunmen have assassinated the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo community in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Eze Josephat Ikegwu, in a brazen late-night attack.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the monarch was shot through the window of his bedroom on Tuesday night while he was at home with his wife. The attackers were said to have stormed the premises at about 10 p.m., opening fire from outside the building before fleeing the scene.

Although the motive behind the killing remains unclear, preliminary reports suggest it may be connected to an internal dispute within the community. Authorities, however, have yet to confirm this.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, Ikechukwu Ogbuofia, described the killing as tragic and deeply disturbing.

“Yes, I have heard of it. It is an unfortunate incident. I was told they shot him through the window in his room,” Ogbuofia stated.

The Ebonyi State Police Command also acknowledged the attack, assuring that efforts are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice. The Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, disclosed that an investigation has been launched.

“We have received a report of the incident, and the police have commenced investigation with a view to apprehending and prosecuting those involved,” Ukandu said.

The killing of Eze Ikegwu adds to growing concerns over the safety of traditional rulers in Ebonyi State. It comes barely one month after another monarch, Francis Igwe of Ikwo Local Government Area, was abducted and later died from injuries sustained in captivity.

Igwe was reportedly kidnapped on his way to church, and his body was recovered days later and deposited in a mortuary. Police had since announced the arrest of nine suspects in connection with the earlier incident.

Residents and stakeholders have called for urgent measures to curb the rising wave of violence and ensure the protection of traditional institutions across the state.