Tension gripped Okon-Aku community in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State on Friday after a youth, Mr Igwe Akuma, was murdered during a violent clash that erupted in the area.
Akuma, who hails from Ndi Uma compound, was reportedly attacked amid the crisis, which later degenerated into arson as angry youths set houses, vehicles and other valuables belonging to some residents ablaze.
The killing was condemned in a statement issued on Saturday by the Udumeze of Ohafia, Ezie Ohamoha Awa Orji Udonsi, alongside the Ohafia Council of Monarchs, who described the incident as barbaric and unacceptable.
According to the traditional institution, the deceased was preparing to get married in a few days before his life was cut short.
The statement read in part: “The Udumeze condemns in its entirety the gruesome murder of a young Ohafian who was said to be getting married in a few days,” and commiserated with the family of the deceased.
The council stressed that there was no justification for the killing of an Ohafia son under any guise, noting that violence and destruction were not fitting ways to begin a new year.
While appealing for calm between the Ndi Owom and Ndi Uma compounds, the traditional rulers said they were working closely with relevant security agencies to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Abia State Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the Divisional Police Officer in Ohafia led officers to the community, where some suspects were arrested.
She added that two police tactical teams had been deployed to restore law and order, while those arrested were currently undergoing interrogation.