By Gloria Ikibah
The member representing Orumba North/South Federal Constituency of Anambra State in the House of Representatives, Rep. Princess Chinwe Nnabuife, has condemned the killing of at least ten people during a meeting of the Ebonyi community in Ogboji, Anambra State.
Addressing journalists on Thursday at the National Assembly Press Centre, Abuja, she described the incident as “a horrific act” that must not go unpunished. 
“It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of national responsibility that I address you today on a tragic incident that recently occurred in Ogboji, a town in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, which lies within the federal constituency I am privileged to represent.
“A violent attack occurred during a meeting of members of the Ebonyi community in Ogboji, resulting in the untimely death of at least ten (10) persons. The victims, all of Ebonyi State extraction, were lawful residents of Ogboji and members of the Ebonyi Union. They were allegedly attacked by unknown assailants during what was meant to be a routine community gathering”, she said.
According to her, the victims were lawful residents and members of the Ebonyi Union in Ogboji.
She explained that “Based on preliminary information gathered from survivors, eyewitnesses, community leaders, and security operatives, the incident appears to have stemmed from an internal leadership dispute within the Ebonyi Union in Ogboji. Credible reports suggest that the conflict, regrettably, escalated and allegedly involved the invitation of external armed elements, which led to this avoidable loss of lives.
She stressed that the attack was not an ethnic or communal clash.
“All indications show that this was neither an ethnic nor a communal conflict, but rather an intra-group crisis among members of the same ethnic background,” she said.
Rep. Nnabuife also provided details about the cause of the dispute. She said that before the attack, leaders of the Ebonyi Union had formally complained about a splinter group that broke away with financial records, cash, and other materials.
“In response, the parent body insisted on their return. Notably, the alleged leader of the splinter group — who also happens to be the Chairman and one of the victims of the attack — has since volunteered a formal statement to the Police,” she said.
She praised the Ogboji Town Union, local vigilante groups, and community leaders for acting quickly to stabilise the situation.
“I also wish to commend the Ebonyi community in Ogboji for the remarkable calm, maturity, and restraint they have exhibited in the face of such profound loss,” she added.
The lawmaker called on security agencies and both Anambra and Ebonyi State Governments to conduct a thorough investigation. “Those responsible for this atrocity must be identified, prosecuted, and brought to justice without delay,” she said.
She further urged the Federal Government to support the victims’ families with relief, medical care, and counselling.
Rep. Nnabuife appealed to the public not to spread false information.
“This is not the time for blame or sensationalism. It is a moment for sober reflection, national solidarity, and truth.
“My deepest condolences go to the bereaved families, the people of Ebonyi State, and the peaceful residents of Ogboji.
“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace, and may peace and justice reign in Ogboji, Anambra State, and across Nigeria”, she stated.
