By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, has condemned the killing of the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo Community, Onicha LGA, Eze Josephat Ikegwu, describing it as barbaric and a direct assault on the peace, unity and collective conscience of the State.

The Governor ordered the state's joint security architecture to immediately unravel the circumstances surrounding the murder of the traditional ruler.

This was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor and made available to journalists in Abakaliki yesterday night.

"It is with a heart weighed down by grief and deep anguish that I condemn the gruesome and senseless murder of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Josephat Ikegwu of Ishinkwo Community in Onicha Local Government Area.

"This tragic and barbaric act is not only an attack on our revered traditional institution, but a direct assault on the peace, unity, and collective conscience of our dear Ebonyi State,” the Governor said.

He condoled with the family of the late monarch even as he awaits further security briefings on the tragic matter.

"I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late monarch, the good people of Ishinkwo Community, and the entire Onicha Local Government Area.

"Let me assure the people of Ebonyi State particular the Ishinkwo people of Onicha that this administration will not fold its arms in the face of such evil.

"Government has already taken decisive and strategic actions to address the incessant killings and restore lasting peace across our state.

"Security agencies have been fully mobilized and directed to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice," Nwifuru said.

While vowing no sacred cows, the Governor insists that no individual or group, no matter how highly placed or connected, will be spared if found culpable.

His words: "The sanctity of human life remains non-negotiable under my watch.

"As a government guided by the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda, we are resolute in our commitment to entrench peace, security, and social order as the bedrock of sustainable development.

"Without peace, there can be no progress, without security, there can be no future. I call on all stakeholders traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, and even the security agencies to rise above divisions and work collectively to safeguard peace and social order in all parts of Ebonyi".