The Ebonyi State Government has adjusted the curfew placed on the Amasiri Community of the Afikpo Local Government Area of the State as a measure necessary for the maintenance of peace and order in the troubled communities.
Recall that there was wanton carnage and gruesome murder of Ebonyians in Okporojo village by warlords allegedly loyal to members of the Amasiri community.
The affected community of Amasiri and Okporojo village in the Oso Edda Community of the Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State had been at daggers drawn due to an unresolved issue bothering on land dispute and ownership.
Following the prompt intervention of the Ebonyi State Government, the anticipated communal clash, which was supposed to have started between Amasiri and Okporojo village in the Oso Edda community, was averted.
Finding a lasting solution to the ugly development, the Ebonyi State Government, after its Security Council meeting of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Executive Council Chamber, Government House, Abakaliki, adjusted the curfew imposed on Amasiri Community to run from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
Addressing newsmen after the Security Council meeting, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru explained that details of the stringent measures to be applied on Amasiri Community, following its refusal to return the lifeless heads of victims, were not an issue of public discourse.
“The Council further agreed that all persons arrested in connection with the crisis between the affected communities should be charged to court without delay, rather than remaining in police custody.”
Responding to questions from journalists, the head of the Council noted that many arrests have been made in connection with the crisis, stressing that under the law, every suspect remains innocent until proven guilty by a court of law, not minding confessional statements obtained from some of those arrested.
The governor further stated that significant progress has been made by security agencies, resulting in relative peace in the affected areas.
On the closure of schools, he explained that reopening was not discussed during the meeting, as schools in the affected communities will therefore remain closed pending further review at the next Security Council meeting.
“The curfew and other measures were imposed strictly to maintain law and order and to protect lives and property, and without these interventions, the crisis could have escalated into a wider communal conflict.
“Arrests and investigations are ongoing, and all those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. I am confident that the measures being implemented will restore lasting peace in the two affected communities.”
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