The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ebonyi State Chapter, led by Rev. Chinedum Nwokolo, has vehemently condemned the tragic killing of approximately 13 Ebonyi indigenes residing at Ogbuoji of Orumba South Local Government Area in Anambra State where several others sustained gun injury.
The incident, which took place on the evening of June 30, 2025, during their regular monthly meeting in an unprovoked and brutal manner by unidentified assailants.
Addressing newsmen in Abakaliki, the state capital, Nwokolo expressed profound dismay and sorrow over what he described as a senseless act of violence against humanity.
“This shocking event is deeply regrettable, barbaric, and signals a perilous regression to a state of nature where humanity’s most fundamental rights are disregarded.
The leaders referenced the philosopher Thomas Hobbes, likening the violence to a scenario where man becomes a wolf to his fellow man, leading to a community where life is “short, brutish, and nasty,” he said.
The Association criticised the audacity of the attackers, questioning how any individual could contemplate such a heinous act against innocent and unarmed individuals.
They highlighted that the brazen attack reflects a serious disregard for morality, law, and the sanctity of human life describing the crime as grievous, deserving both divine and secular punishment, hence, referenced the Gospel of Matthew which states, that those who live by the sword shall die by the sword.
Nwokolo extended their heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of Ebonyi State, particularly to the families of those who lost loved ones in the attack and called on the Government of Anambra State to take swift action to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice while urging the two states government to implement measures to support the bereaved families, recognizing that while no compensation can truly substitute for the loss of a loved one, assistance to alleviate their burden is of great importance.
The association appealed to the people of Anambra State to encourage solidarity and a collective effort toward combating the rising tide of violence in the region.
Other members, including, Rev Fr Joseph Chukwudubem Origbo, who is the state Secretary, and Vice Chairman, Rev Joseph Nwibo, appealed to the state government to ensure that the root cause of the dastardly act is unravel as to strengthen the seamless relationship of the two sister states.
Meanwhile, some minutes’ prayer was offered for the slain youth in commemoration of their souls.