Protest as three persons killed in community leadership tussle



Protest Scene

By OLALEKAN BADMOS
Irate members of Azagba community in Uhunwode Local Government, Edo state, took to the street on Tuesday to protest the killing of three of their fellow community members in a renewed leadership tussle.

The victims, identified as Osadolor (28), Amigolo Ighitu (45) and Ameosa Egbeobamwanye, were reportedly shot at close range on Sunday when some thugs allegedly invaded the community.

Many houses were also burnt during the attack.

The Battle for leadership of the community was said to have been on for the past three years between the Community Development Association (CDA) chairman, Charles Egbe, and its spiritual leader, Nosakhare Ogieriakhi.

It, however, took a new dimension on Sunday when three members of the community were reportedly shot dead.

Worried by the development, members of the victims’ families protested, asking for police protection in the community.

They accused the CDA chairman of bringing about 40 thugs to carry out the act.

Loveth Odigie, nephew to one of the victims, alleged that her Uncle, Amigolo, was pursued into the house where he was shot dead.

“The mother begged them but they pushed her away. I don't know what they are fighting for. The thugs came and killed my brother," she said.

Meanwhile, Egbe has denied all allegations against him, saying he knew nothing about the killing.

“The Ohen came with his boys but he told them not to touch me. They took one of my boys away and I was later told that he was shot. I called the police and it was around 7:30pm I heard that the boy died at the hospital. I don’t know what they are saying now that another person was killed. I don't know what happened in the bush."

"My house at Azagba has been set ablaze. They said I should not enter my house in the village but I went there and they came to fight me. How can I take four boys to go and fight. I did not take any thugs there and I did not know how many people were killed. Police were in my house protecting me that day. The problem has been on for the past six months."