In a major breakthrough, the Nigerian Police have arrested a suspect, Ebe Maduabuchi, in connection with the brutal attack on the Amegu-Nkalaha community in Ebonyi State. The assault, which occurred on Sunday morning, left at least 16 people dead and reduced 25 houses to ashes, sending shockwaves across the region.
Maduabuchi, a local resident, was apprehended on Monday in the neighbouring Eha-Amufu community by local security personnel before being handed over to the police at the Ikem Divisional Police Station. Sources revealed that he was allegedly working in collaboration with the assailants.
Despite being subjected to intense interrogation, Maduabuchi has continued to plead innocence. However, according to community leader Samuel Edeze, the suspect reportedly disclosed some names of those involved in the attack. He further claimed that Fulani herdsmen had allegedly paid N5 million to their local collaborators to execute the assault.
“We cannot confirm the truth of his claim yet, but investigations will reveal those responsible and their exact roles in the attack,” Edeze stated.
Meanwhile, in response to the bloodshed, the Ebonyi State government has reinforced security in Amegu-Nkalaha, deploying both the Nigerian Police and the state-backed security outfit, Ebube-Agu, to restore order and prevent further violence.
The deadly attack has once again underscored the escalating tensions between local communities and armed groups suspected to be Fulani herdsmen. As the investigation unfolds, the residents of Amegu-Nkalaha await justice, hoping that the full weight of the law will be brought down on those responsible for the carnage.
PIONEER NEWS 