The government of Ebonyi State has ordered the destruction of all shrines and deities in Amasiri following its alleged involvement in a violent land dispute that recently led to deaths and widespread destruction of property.
The directive was issued by the state governor, Francis Nwifuru, after an enlarged state security meeting held on Thursday.
In a statement released on Friday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, the government said the demolition of the shrines and deities formed part of measures taken against the community over its alleged complicity in the crisis.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Amasiri had recently been involved in a renewed land dispute with neighbouring Okporojo.
The conflict reportedly escalated into violence, resulting in several deaths and the destruction of houses and other properties in the affected communities.
Authorities said the situation became more disturbing when some of the victims were reportedly beheaded by the attackers, who fled the scene with the severed heads.
Following the incident, the state government imposed a series of sanctions on the Amasiri community aimed at restoring order and preventing further violence.
Among the measures already announced are the sacking of political appointees from the community, the dethronement of its traditional rulers, the imposition of a curfew, and the closure of schools in the area.
Officials say the latest directive to destroy shrines and deities is part of broader steps being taken by the government to address the crisis and ensure accountability for the violence.
The government also urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to restore peace and stability in the area.
