A member of the Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Watch, identified as Chidiebere Okpara, has been killed by suspected gunmen in Abakaliki, the state capital.
The attack occurred on Thursday at about 8:30 p.m. in the Ugwuachara area of Abakaliki, according to residents familiar with the incident.
Sources said the assailants repeatedly shot Okpara during the attack. However, the bullets reportedly did not initially penetrate his body, prompting the attackers to ensure he was eventually killed.
The motive behind the killing remains unclear, while security agencies have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
The source said the gunmen then brought out knives and stabbed him, after which he died.
Police in Ebonyi confirmed the killing of Mr Chidiebere Okpara by suspected gunmen in Abakaliki.
Joshua Ukandu, spokesperson for the police in the state, confirmed the incident to reporters.
Ukandu said the victim was reportedly attacked at Ugwuachara in Abakaliki Local Government Area at about 8:30 p.m. on Thursday.
He said the command had commenced an investigation into the incident and that no arrest had been made.
The police spokesperson pledged the command’s commitment to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
“Investigation has begun into the matter, and we are determined to fish out the perpetrators of the crime. We are committed to safeguarding the lives and property of the people,” he said.
