By Titus Eleweke
Residents of Ukpata community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State have been thrown into mourning following an attack by suspected armed herdsmen that claimed the life of a 28-year-old man and left several others injured.
The victim, identified as Ezechi Ekenechukwu, was reportedly killed on October 29, 2026, when armed assailants invaded the community.
Ekenechukwu, described as the breadwinner of his family, was said to have been the major source of support for his loved ones.
Several other residents sustained injuries,
while fears of further attacks have heightened tension in the community. No arrests have reportedly been made.
Reacting to the incident in his Monday statement titled Monday Musings, human rights lawyer and IPOB lead counsel, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, condemned the killings and called on Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, to urgently visit the community and address its security challenges.
Ejiofor questioned the government’s priorities, arguing that political activities should not overshadow the safety of rural communities.
He urged the state government and security agencies to strengthen forest guard operations through improved intelligence, sophisticated equipment and adequate logistical support.
The lawyer also called for decisive security operations to flush out criminal elements allegedly occupying farmlands and surrounding forests in Uzo-Uwani.
He commended the forest guards for their efforts but warned that vulnerable communities would remain exposed without sustained government intervention.
Ejiofor expressed condolences to the bereaved family and the entire Ukpata community, urging authorities to take immediate steps to prevent further bloodshed.
Tags: Enugu, Ukpata Attack, Insecurity, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Peter Mbah
