Two people have been confirmed dead following an alleged communal crisis in Iyamomo Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
The victims, Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, were reportedly killed by one of the warring factions during a violent clash last week.
The community has, in recent times, been engulfed in a leadership crisis over the selection of a new Odionwere (village head), a dispute that has triggered a series of violent attacks and counterattacks between rival groups.
In response to the killing, the Edo State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, vowing to bring those responsible to justice.
The probe is being led by the state’s Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” in collaboration with other security agencies and community leaders.
Over the weekend, the Government House Chief Security Officer (CSO), CSP Osaro Roberts, and the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, Okoh Saturday, visited the troubled community to assess the situation and gather firsthand information about the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Enomwa and Imaghodo.
During the visit, the Secretary of the Special Security Squad, John Izegaebe, condemned the killings and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating cultism, kidnapping, and communal violence across Edo State.
“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.
“We are sending a very strong message to community leaders: disputes must be resolved legally, not through violence.
“Governor Okpebholo has zero tolerance for crime, and anyone who foments unrest in Edo communities will face the full wrath of the law,” Izegaebe said.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, Izegaebe extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
Meanwhile, residents of Iyanomo Community welcomed the government’s security team with a sense of relief, thanking the Governor and the task force for their prompt intervention in the wake of the killings.
Many appealed for a sustained government presence in the area to prevent further violence and help restore lasting peace.
In response Izegaebe assured the community that the ongoing investigation would be thorough, unbiased, and far-reaching, and vowed that those responsible for the killings would be held accountable, regardless of their status or position.
