Truck Driver Killed Over Land Crisis In Ebonyi

According to reports, suspected warlords shot and killed a truck driver along the Ishiagu/Okigwe Expressway in Ebonyi State as the ongoing land dispute between the communities of Ogwor, Ishiagu, and Umuobor, Akaeze, in the Ivo Local Government Area, gets more intense.

The decades-long feud over fertile land has led to repeated clashes, resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property. The expressway, a critical route for motorists, has become a dangerous zone due to frequent attacks linked to the crisis.

Sources report that about six people have been killed recently by suspected warlords who have been blocking the expressway, attacking motorists, and creating fear among road users.

Over the weekend, a truck driver from Imo State was killed near the Ayaragu axis of the expressway.

A source revealed, “There is an intercommunal war between Akaeze and Ayaragu over a land dispute. A truck driver from Imo State was killed along that road today. Truck drivers from Imo State are now threatening to block Okigwe roads to prevent vehicles from entering or leaving Ebonyi State.”

Messages circulating on social media from drivers warn: “Please spread this message to the people of Ebonyi to avoid a tragedy. It’s a security challenge. Be cautious if you are traveling on that route.”

When contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, stated that he was not yet aware of the incident. He promised to reach out to the Ivo Police Division for details but had not provided an update at the time of this report.

The escalating violence calls for urgent intervention to restore peace and ensure the safety of lives and property along the Ishiagu/Okigwe Expressway.