A youth, Mr Igwe Akuma from Ndi Uma compound, was on Friday killed during a crisis that erupted in Okon-Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.
Also, houses, vehicles and other property belonging to some individuals in the community were set ablaze by youths.
A statement issued by the Udumeze of Ohafia, Ezie Ohamoha Awa Orji Udonsi, and the Ohafia Council of Monarchs on Saturday condemned the killing of the youth and the attendant arson that followed his murder.
According to the statement by the apex traditional body in Ohafia, the victim, Mr. Igwe Akuma, was reportedly planning to get married in a few days before he met his untimely death.
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 statement made it clear that there was no justification for the killing of an Ohafia son under any guise, no matter the provocation, adding that killing and destruction were not the best ways to start a new year.
While appealing for calm between the Ndi Owom and Ndi Uma compounds, the Udumeze of Ohafia Council said that it was working with relevant security agencies to prevent the crisis from escalating.
Confirming the ugly development to BELLNEWS, the Police Public Relations Officer of Abia State Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said that the DPO of Ohafia Divisional Headquarters led officers to arrest some suspects.
She added that two police tactical teams were sent to the scene of the crisis to restore and maintain law and order, while the arrested suspects are facing interrogation.