Thousands of residents of Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State were seen in the early hours of Wednesday fleeing their homes with their luggages and personal belongings, following the expiration of a 72-hour ultimatum issued by the state government.
The ultimatum directed the community to produce the severed heads of three persons killed during an attack on Okporojo community in Oso Edda, Edda Local Government Area, allegedly carried away by suspected Amasiri assailants.
Our correspondent, who monitored the development, observed that women, children, and elderly residents were among those leaving, while many men and youths reportedly remained behind to safeguard their homes and property from possible looting.
It would be recalled that the Ebonyi State government on Monday issued the 72-hour directive, demanding that the community also return four persons allegedly abducted in Okporojo Village.
The government further directed Amasiri to produce the severed head of Mr. Augustine Ite from Akpoha in Afikpo Local Government Area, who was reportedly abducted, killed, and buried in a shallow grave within the community.
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Governor Francis Nwifuru announced the ultimatum while briefing journalists after a high-level security meeting at the New Government House, Abakaliki, the state capital.
In a social media post, an indigene of Amasiri described the situation as alarming.
“The situation in Amasiri has taken a new dimension this morning. Thousands of our indigenes are fleeing their homes, fearing government action after the 72-hour ultimatum expires.
“Many have sought refuge in Afikpo Town, while others have fled to Cross River State. Our community is gradually becoming a ghost town. We need help,” the post read.
Some residents who spoke to journalists, said they fled to avoid possible reprisals and the anticipated government crackdown.
A nursing mother, Charity, said residents had endured hardship, hunger, and restricted movement for over a week.
“Those suffering are innocent people. The perpetrators have fled into the bushes or left the community. The government should go after the masterminds. Our children are paying for the actions of a few individuals,” she said.
According to residents, schools, churches, and markets have remained closed for over a week, while movement within and outside the community has been heavily restricted. Many families are reportedly running out of food supplies.
A businessman from Abia State, Mr. Chimaobi Kalu, appealed to the state government to consider non-indigenes with businesses in the area, noting that commercial activities have been shut down for over a week.
“Many of us are considering relocating our businesses to other towns. I have already moved my family to Abia State. I am only staying back to protect my shop from possible looting,” he said.
Kalu added that while security agencies, including the military, have maintained patrols in the area, the prevailing hunger and tension pose risks of unrest.
Residents collectively appealed to Gov. Nwifuru, the Founding Fathers, and the Elders Council to temper justice with mercy and focus efforts on apprehending those directly responsible for the violence.
