By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Abakaliki Branch, has called on the Federal Government and relevant authorities to conduct an in-depth investigation into the recent massacre of over eleven Ebonyi indigenes in Ogborji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a strongly worded statement issued on July 3, 2025, and signed by its Chairman, Ede Samuel Ede JP, the association condemned the attack as “barbaric and inhumane,” describing it as a direct affront to human life and the rule of law.
According to reports, the victims, who were attending a peaceful community meeting, were ambushed and murdered by unknown assailants. While the police have since launched an investigation, the NBA insists that only a full-scale and impartial probe can bring justice and prevent future occurrences.
“This dastardly act is a violation of Section 33(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life,” the statement read. “The NBA Abakaliki Branch calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governors of Ebonyi and Anambra States to take decisive steps in ensuring that the perpetrators are identified and prosecuted.”
The association urged security agencies to go beyond surface-level inquiries and uncover the root causes and possible motivations—whether political, ethnic, or communal—behind the killings. It also advocated stronger inter-state collaboration between Ebonyi and Anambra States to forestall further violence and foster peaceful coexistence.
Furthermore, the NBA called on the National Assembly and state legislatures to review existing laws and enact effective frameworks to address the growing insecurity in the Southeast region.
Expressing deep sympathy to the bereaved families, the NBA Abakaliki Branch reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice through all available legal channels.
“This is not a time for silence or complacency. Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done,” the association declared.