Ebonyi Community Mourns as 78-Year-Old Chief Johnson Obasi Buried Following Fatal Attack

Chief Johnson Okoro Obasi, aged 78, who was killed in Ekoli community, Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has been laid to rest. Obasi was attacked on June 1, 2025, amid clashes between rival groups in the area, which also led to multiple deaths and property damage worth millions of naira.

An autopsy confirmed that Obasi died from internal bleeding and bruises sustained during the assault. His burial, held over the weekend at his family home, was marked by mourning and heartfelt tributes from relatives and community members.

Paying homage, his nephew, Dr. Eni Uduma Chima, lamented the tragic loss and called for justice. Chima, a former House of Assembly member and local government chairman, noted that despite his family’s tradition of longevity, Obasi’s life was cut short.

“Your years on earth were brutally cut short by agents of darkness, even though you came from a family known for long life—the ‘Ibe Eze Nta Aja’ lineage,” Chima said, describing Obasi as a man blessed with strength, good health, a sound mind, and a vision for his family.

Traditional rulers of the community also voiced sorrow over the killing. Etta Egor Akanu alleged that the release of previously arrested suspects had contributed to ongoing unrest.

“Politicians sent their thugs to attack Okoro Obasi, and he died as a result. These people continue to terrorize our community, and the government must stop releasing them. Peace recommendations submitted to Governor Francis Nwifuru have not been implemented, and harassment continues,” he said.

Another ruler, Thomas Ama, urged the immediate enforcement of peace recommendations to restore order and raised concerns over groups still carrying weapons despite disarmament directives.

The community continues to mourn Obasi while calling for urgent measures to ensure security and justice for all victims of violence in the area.

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