Group decries destruction, death in Emeabiam youth crisis …Wants Govt, security agencies to ensure peace reigns

Imo Media Forum has condemned the unfortunate clash between youths in Emeabiam Community, which reportedly led to the death of a youth over disagreement on the leadership of the youths.

Speaking to reporters in Owerri, Secretary of the group, Uzosike Amadi, said it is unfortunate that clash of interest between youths of the same community can lead to destruction of properties and fighting that eventually was said to have led to loss of life.

He frowned at the failure of Emeabiam community leaders and elders to have allowed the disagreement to get deepen to the point of physical fight, urging the government and security agents to ensure that peace returns to the community.

Reports indicate that one Stanley Nwaobilor, was killed and four others injured during a clash penultimate Saturday night at Umuso Emeabiam, Owerri West LGA of Imo State.

When our roving reporter visited the community, there were visible signs that many, especially youths, have deserted the place may be due to fear.

An middle-aged woman who refused to give her name said about nine houses were set ablaze, and even cars burnt during the attack.

Reports indicate that some youths went to take possession of a palm plantation and were attacked by Stanley Nwaobilor and some of his supporters, who were brutally attacked with machetes.

The middle-aged woman disclosed that the youths were in a supremacy battle to control the leadership of the youth organization.

A man who said his name is Ndaa Ibe said everyone is afraid of what will happen next either a reprisal attack or arrest by security agencies.

According to him, youths suspected to come from neighbouring communities were the ones that burnt the houses of the other faction leader including cars in a reprisal attack.

It will be recalled that there was a youth election which was held early in the year and was later aborted for a Caretaker Committee to be set up with one Eke Chinondu as Chairman.

The Commissioner of Police in Imo, Aboki Danjuma who condemned the wanton destruction and killing, is said to have visited the community to assess situation.

Media reports say he condoled with the bereaved family and those whose homes were destroyed.

CP Danjuma was said to have assured the community that normalcy has been restored with security measures in place to prevent further unrest.

While warning all to remain calm and law-abiding, CP Danjuma said: “violence is not a solution to disputes. We call on community leaders to adopt peaceful conflict resolution strategies to prevent future occurrences.”

Our Correspondent could not reach either the village head or the Caretaker committee Chairman for their comments.