An Anambra-born human rights lawyer and counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has called for urgent security intervention in Okigwe, Imo State, following the reported killing of two indigenes, Onyeribe, popularly known as Nke-Nke Enyi, and Jude, also known as Oba Benin.
Ejiofor, who expressed profound grief over the incident, said the two men were allegedly abducted by armed men on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Umuanuoke, Okigwe, before their bodies were reportedly discovered decapitated.
The victims were identified as indigenes of Umuonyeneri and Umuobiara communities, respectively.
In his Monday Musings commentary, dated October 19, Ejiofor lamented the recurring violence in the area, questioning why innocent residents should continue to lose their lives while families live in fear and entire communities face the threat of displacement.
He described the killings as another painful reminder of the worsening insecurity confronting parts of Ala-Igbo, warning that the continued loss of innocent lives, coupled with silence and inaction, could gradually normalise violence and make the suffering of affected communities appear inevitable.
According to him, those allegedly responsible for the killings had no connection with the legitimate aspiration for self-determination, insisting that the pursuit of such a cause must never be used to justify the murder of innocent people.
Ejiofor expressed concern that fear had discouraged many residents from speaking publicly about the violence, while some individuals allegedly continued to defend or excuse the activities of armed groups responsible for attacks on communities.
He commended individuals, including one identified as Ebekuodike, whom he said had demonstrated the courage to speak out against the violence and advocate cooperation with conventional security agencies.
The lawyer called on the Imo State Government to move beyond expressions of concern and take decisive, concrete measures to protect residents of Okigwe and other affected communities.
He urged the government and relevant security agencies to intensify security operations, thoroughly investigate the reported killings, dismantle armed criminal networks and ensure that anyone found culpable was prosecuted in accordance with the law.
“The people need more than assurances. They need effective protection, credible investigations, the dismantling of armed criminal networks, and the prosecution of those responsible in accordance with the law,” he said.
Ejiofor warned that prolonged insecurity could deepen the suffering of residents, force families to abandon their ancestral homes and inflict lasting emotional and social wounds on affected families and communities.
He further demanded accountability for those who perpetrate or knowingly enable violence, stressing that the pursuit of justice must not be compromised by political affiliations, ethnic considerations or the causes invoked by those involved.
“Ala-Igbo must not be allowed to bleed in silence. Okigwe must not be abandoned. Our people must not become refugees in the land of their birth,” he said.
He urged residents to speak out against violence, support efforts to protect vulnerable communities and demand justice for victims without fear or favour.
Ejiofor also prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased, asking God to comfort their bereaved families and the people of Umuonyeneri and Umuobiara communities in their moment of grief.
He maintained that lasting peace in the South-East could only be achieved through justice, effective security measures, truth and the protection of human dignity.
