Ebonyi state governor David Umahi has ordered the arrest of his deputy chief of staff Prof. Fidelis Okpata of alleged involvement in communal clashes in the state that has seen lives and properties destroyed in the process.

 

Commissioner of police in the state Mr. Titus Lamorde while confirming the arrest also said top politicians in the affected areas have also been arrested.

 

Governor Umahi while expressing dismay over the recurring incidences said it was unfortunate that crisis in these communities re-occur, despite the fact that a committee was set up to look into the matter.

 

“We pleaded with the communities to ceasefire and await the outcome of
the committee report but it does appear that they do not want to give peace a chance. I therefore order the Commissioner of Police to arrest all the stakeholders and political office holders from the communities.

 

“Without looking back, all of you in this Executive council chamber are under arrest. I want the Commissioner of Police to detain you people until peace returns to the communities.” He stressed.

 

Crisis in Ekpomaka-Inyimagu and Izzi communities broke out on the 25th of February and since then, over 10 lives and properties worth millions of naira have been reportedly destroyed.

 

Photo Credit: Diaspora Reporters