By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
Community leaders in Edda Local Government Area are calling for the immediate return of the head of Dike Nnachi, a man who was beheaded by suspected warlords last Tuesday. The demand was made public by Senator Sonni Ogboji during the maiden Edda New Yam Festival (Ikeji Edda) in Nguzu Edda.
Nnachi’s body was found in a nearby bush with his head severed. Senator Ogboji, addressing the press, stated that the community is not at war with the neighboring Amasiri community, contrary to popular belief. He described the killing as politically motivated and urged the state government to intervene.
“We are appealing to the state government to step in and ensure this kind of ugly incident does not happen again,” Ogboji said. He emphasized that the community has always promoted peace and unity.
Ogboji insisted that Nnachi’s head must be returned so his family can give him a proper burial. “If not, we might take drastic action to find it,” he warned.
Echoing the senator’s sentiments, council chairman Hon. Chima Ekumankama called on the state government to deploy more security personnel, including soldiers and police, to protect lives and property in the area. Ekumankama, who offered condolences to the victim’s family, expressed his pain over the recurring violence.
“It hurts me seriously when I see the blood of any Edda man in the community,” he said. “More security personnel is what I’m asking for to stop this senseless killing.”
A minute of silence was observed for the deceased during the festival. The Osu Edda and Amasiri communities have recently been in a land dispute that has resulted in several casualties and the destruction of property.
Despite the somber mood, the chairman of the council, highlighted the importance of the New Yam Festival. The celebration, known for its rich cultural performances such as the maiden dance (Eyighiya), mystical displays by native doctors (Elemele Nsi), comedy (Chakalagha owon), and warrior skills (Igbanzu), was traditionally splintered among different communities.
To promote unity, the festival was centralized this year for the first time. According to the committee, this was done “to usher in a new era” for the people of Edda.