Another dies as crisis still lingers in Oruku community

MR CHIKODILI Ngwu, from Ameke village in the crisis-torn Oruku community, Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, has been shot and killed by gunmen.

  The unfortunate incident happened about three weeks ago after gunmen murdered Chief Linus Nwatu, the President-General of Oruku Town Union.

  Following the crisis, Mr Ngwu, a middle-aged man is said to be the ninth indigene of the community so far murdered by gunmen believed to be working for some powerful personalities involved in the protracted communal conflict in the area.

  It was reported that the victim was gunned down at about 8am on Sunday by yet-to-be-identified assailants within the Oruku market square.

  Fact about the incident as at press time, remains vague but it was learnt that the gunmen fled the scene after the gunshot, throwing the residents into panic.

  A reliable source revealed that the incessant killings in Oruku have forced many residents to relocate their families to neighbouring communities and towns such as Idodo, Akpoga, Onuogba and Emene.

  Before the killing of Nwatu, other natives of the community about seven including the traditional ruler, Igwe Emmanuel Mba were gruesomely murdered at different times from the year 2020 to 2022.

  When contacted the Enugu State Police PRO, Daniel Ndukwe, said he was yet to be briefed about the development, promising to get back after contacting relevant officers-in-charge of the area.