Abakaliki, Ebonyi State — The people of Edda Clan in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have rejected calls for clemency and the unconditional release of suspects standing trial over the alleged killing and beheading of four indigenes of Okporojo community, warning against what they described as attempts to politicise a grave criminal matter.
The position was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Chairman of Nzuko Edda, Abakaliki Branch, Chief David Nkama, and the Secretary, Chief Stanley Ngwu.
The clan said any move to pressure the state government for leniency could undermine ongoing judicial processes and destabilise fragile peace efforts in the area.
The statement was a response to a communiqué reportedly issued by stakeholders of Amasiri Clan following a meeting held on May 6, 2026, as well as social media comments calling for clemency for the defendants.
According to the Edda leadership, the January 29, 2026 incident led to the killing of four persons in Okporojo community, including the beheading of three victims, alongside the abduction of residents and destruction of about 29 houses and other properties, leaving several families displaced.
Describing the attack as “gruesome and traumatic,” the group insisted that justice must take precedence over emotional appeals or political considerations.
The clan commended Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for what it described as decisive action following the incident, particularly the arraignment of 33 suspects allegedly indicted by police investigations.
“The governor’s intervention restored public confidence in the justice system and reinforced the principle that no one is above the law,” the statement said.
However, the group expressed concern over renewed calls for the unconditional release of the suspects, warning that such demands could inflame tensions and reverse peace-building gains.
“Justice cannot be sacrificed on the altar of political pressure or clannish sentiments. Sustainable peace can only be achieved where truth, accountability and responsibility prevail,” the statement added.
The Edda Clan urged the state government to remain firm in its commitment to justice and the rule of law, stressing that reconciliation must be based on sincerity, remorse and accountability.
It further noted that despite the scale of losses suffered, the people of Okporojo and Edda had exercised restraint due to confidence in the judicial process.
The group also appealed to Governor Nwifuru not to yield to pressure for the release of the suspects before the conclusion of ongoing trials, expressing confidence that the courts would ensure justice is served.
According to the clan, lasting peace in Ebonyi State depends on the full prosecution of those indicted and the assurance that victims receive justice under the law.
