Senator Athan Achonu has strongly condemned the recent killings in Ezinachi, Okigwe Local Government Area, urging the Igbo community to end acts of self-destruction.
The senator’s statement comes in the wake of the brutal murder of five individuals, including Mr. Emeka Ezeagwula, Mrs. Blessing C. Ezeagwula, Mr. Ejike Otuonye, Mr. Chidi Chineke, and one unidentified victim.
This tragic event occurred just days after the withdrawal of military personnel from the area, with the perpetrators reportedly attacking the community without any resistance.
Describing the incident as a “shameful indictment” on local and state leadership, Senator Achonu called for more proactive measures by Local Government chairmen.
He urged them to take charge by mobilizing communities, collaborating closely with security agencies, and prioritizing the protection of lives.
The senator emphasized that federal allocations to local councils should lead to tangible improvements in grassroots security to prevent such tragedies in the future.
While praising the spirit and bravery of the Okigwe youths who established a vigilante group, Senator Achonu warned that their efforts risk being futile without proper training, adequate equipment, and effective coordination with the police and military.
He stressed the importance of supporting these groups to ensure they can contribute meaningfully to community safety rather than remain vulnerable.
In a heartfelt appeal, Senator Achonu implored the Ndi Okigwe and the broader Igbo community to halt the cycle of violence that has plagued their land.
Drawing on Igbo proverbs, he reminded the people that “he who kills his brother is no warrior” and urged unity with the saying, “nothing stands alone; our survival depends on standing together.”
The senator declared, “Enough is enough. We cannot continue killing ourselves while outsiders profit from our pain.”
Extending his condolences to the families of the victims, Senator Achonu called for urgent community-led security partnerships, genuine investments in local intelligence, and a unified front across Igbo land.
He warned that history would not forgive the community if their villages were allowed to turn into graveyards, emphasizing that the time to unite and act decisively is now.