Gunmen have beheaded two persons at Igede village in the Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

It was gathered that the gunmen also set houses ablaze during an attack on the community in the early hours of Monday, May 20, 2024.

The incident was confirmed by Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer Joshua Ukandu.

Ukandu said police officers and military personnel have been deployed to the community to protect the residents and to forestall any reprisal.

The incident comes less than 24 hours after two persons were killed and seven others abducted at Ikachi village in the Akparata area of Effium in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

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President-General of Effium Community Dr James Agena, in a statement on Monday, said the assailants, suspected to be Ezza warriors, invaded the village on Sunday, killed two persons, and kidnapped seven residents.

Agena noted: “I write to put you on notice that (alleged) Ezza warriors attacked Ikachi village in the Akparata area of Effium resulting in the killing and beheading of two men. Seven Effium natives were abducted (five women and two men), a total of 12 people sustained gunshot wounds while five houses were burnt down.

“The deceased are Obinna Aje, 19 years and Ogenyi Abowu, 78 years.

“This latest attack is in addition to (alleged), Ezza warriors attack on Effium urban last Sunday, May 12, 2024, where one Mrs. Cecelia Omah was killed and her head severed.

“This is an attack too many on the peace-loving people of Effium. I call on the government of Ebonyi State and the security agencies to promptly arrest and prosecute all those involved in the genocidal act.

“This is equally coming on the heels of an invitation by the new peace committee on May 21, 2024, for the reading of the government White Paper on Effium crisis to the two warring factions.”

The Star