Yet-to-be-idenrified gunmen ha e killed the traditional ruler of Ishinkwor community in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Eze Josephat Ikegwu.

Accoeding to sources in the community, the monarch was killed around 10pm Wednesday night when the gunmen invaded his palace and shot him through the window.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, the chairman of OnichaLocalGovernment, Ikechukwu Ogbofia said police was investigating the killings and urged people of the community to remain calm.

“Yes, I have heard of it. It is an unfortunate incident. I heard they entered his house and shot him through the window,” Ogbofia said.

When contacted, the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, also confirmed the development, stating that an investigation had commenced to track the perpetrators.

“We have received a report of the incident, and the police have launched an investigation with a view to apprehending and prosecuting those involved,” he said.

Ikegwu’s killing brings the number of monarchs killed in the state to five.

AljazirahNigeria recalls that the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Areavof the state, Eze Francis Igwe was last month killed after he was abducted on his way to church by suspected kidnappers.

The monarch died a day later from injuries sustained during captivity.

His body was recovered about a week later and deposited in a mortuary.

Police authorities subsequently announced the arrest of nine suspects in connection with his abduction and death.