Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has strongly condemned the assassination of Chief Silas Onyima, the President-General of Umuoji community in Idemili North Local Government Area. The governor expressed his deep concern and sadness over the incident, directing state security agencies to swiftly apprehend and prosecute the culprits.
The attack, carried out by unidentified gunmen suspected to be assassins, occurred on Friday night at the residence of the deceased. Onyima was shot in the bathroom while taking a bath, following multiple machete cuts inflicted by the assailants. The community was thrown into panic, with residents avoiding major roads and the usually bustling Eke market appearing deserted.
Governor Soludo, in a press statement issued by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, described the killing as an act of unprovoked violence. He offered heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Umuoji community, and the entire Idemili North Local Government Area, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and deterrence for future crimes.
While the Anambra State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, no arrests have been announced yet. The state government reaffirmed its dedication to securing lives and properties, urging residents to remain calm and law-abiding. The killing of Chief Silas Onyima adds to a concerning trend, with several community leaders in Anambra State falling victim to similar violent attacks in recent times.