Gunmen have assassinated Eze Jehoshaphat Ikegwu, the traditional ruler of Ishinkwor Autonomous Community, Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
This has intensified fears over a growing wave of targeted attacks on monarchs.
The killing marks at least the fifth assassination of a traditional ruler in the state within the past two years, raising serious concerns about security in the region.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers struck late at night, shooting the monarch at close range inside his bedroom in the presence of his wife.
A resident, who identified himself simply as Chinedu, described the incident as both shocking and terrifying.
“They came in the night and operated without resistance. It is a shocking and terrifying incident,” he said, adding that the attack has thrown the entire community into panic.
Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area, Ikechukwu Ogbofia, confirmed the killing and strongly condemned the act, describing it as “barbaric and unacceptable.”
He assured residents that security agencies have been mobilised to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and bring those responsible to justice.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. The government is working closely with security agencies to ensure those responsible are apprehended.”
The Nigeria Police Force spokesperson in the state, SP Joshua Ukandu, also confirmed the incident, noting that investigations are already underway.
The latest killing comes just weeks after a similar tragedy in Ndufu-Alike Community in Ikwo Local Government Area, where another monarch, Eze Francis Igwe, was abducted and later murdered, with his body reportedly set ablaze.
Several suspects, including a political figure, were arrested in connection with that case.
