In a tragic incident, the Onu Itama, HRH, Chief Job Shagari Ebijego, was reportedly assassinated by unidentified gunmen near his palace in the Itama community, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to a family source who spoke to Arewa PUNCH, the hired assassins attacked the monarch while he was walking within his palace compound around 9:00 pm. The subjects of the late ruler and his guards initially sought safety, leaving the monarch unattended until the assailants fled on a motorcycle after the shooting stopped.
The lifeless body of the traditional ruler was later discovered near his palace by the roadside.
Reports indicate that the monarch had been involved in chieftaincy disputes and land conflicts within the community, possibly triggering the violent attack.
Subsequently, unrest and arson have engulfed the Itama community as enraged youths seek retribution, prompting the deployment of police and military personnel to maintain order.
Despite efforts to restore calm, several youths have been apprehended, and many residents have fled the area in fear, leaving the once vibrant community deserted.
Neighboring communities have turned into makeshift refuge camps as residents seek safety from the ongoing turmoil.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragic incident, calls for justice and apprehension of the perpetrators echo across the region.
The late Shagari Ebijego, a former police officer known for his wisdom and fairness, was highly esteemed by his people. His sudden demise has deeply shaken the region.
Police authorities are actively working to address the situation, with 12 arrests made in relation to the unrest and plans to transfer them to police headquarters in Lokoja.
Amidst these developments, investigations continue, and efforts to reach the Kogi State Police Command spokesperson have been unsuccessful as of the latest update.