By Abdullah Egbakhime
Leadership tussle in Iyanomo, community in Ikpoba Okha, local government area of Edo State has claimed the lives of two persons.
The victims identified as Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, were reportedly killed last week in following a clash between two rival factions over who controls the community.
A statement by Fred Itua, spokespersons for governor Monday Okpebholo, said the state government has launched
a full-scale investigation into the gruesome murder the deceased.
He assured that those behind the killings and the crisis in the community would be brought to justice no matter how highly placed in the society.
According to the statement, the investigation codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, is being spearheaded by the Edo State Special Security Squad in collaboration with security agencies and community leaders.
It said the squad led by the Chief Security Officer (CSO), to the governor, CSP Osaro Roberts, and the Principal Security Officer, Okoh Saturday had already visited the troubled community at the weekend to ascertain the true circumstances surrounding the killings..
“the Secretary of the Special Security Squad, Barr. John Izegaebe, who addressed the community, condemned the act of violence and reiterated the government’s resolve to stamp out cultism, kidnapping, and communal clashes in Edo state.
“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 statement said.
It warned the community that disputes must be resolved legally, not through violence and that anyone who foments unrest in Edo communities will face the full wrath of the law.”
