The Ezinano community in Anambra State has declared a reward of ₦10 million for any information that could assist law enforcement in apprehending suspected cultists responsible for the deaths of more than 20 individuals in the region.
It could be recalled that the tragic incident in Nibo, which took place two weeks ago, was succeeded by a similar event in the neighbouring community of Ifite, where seven additional individuals lost their lives under comparable circumstances.
However, Jeff Nweke, the leader of the Ezinano community in the Awka South Local Government Area, announced a reward on Saturday during an empowerment program held at the community square in Awka for anyone who could help with any information to aid the arrest of the assailants.
“We are donating the sum of N10m to help the police and other security agencies arrest the killers of over 20 persons in Nibo and Ifite communities.
“The money will go to anyone or group that will give the police and other security agencies useful information that will lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the dastardly acts,” he said.
Nweke, expressing his dismay over the recent killings, remarked that such violence is unusual for the region and urged the police to work in conjunction with the community to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The community leader, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Blue Shield Security in Awka, voiced his concerns regarding the significant moral decline among the youth and called upon parents to take greater responsibility in instilling positive values in their children.
Additionally, he announced a commitment of ₦50 million as part of his leadership initiatives to empower underprivileged women in the community to enhance their agricultural endeavours.
He stated that these funds would enable the women to establish fish and poultry farms, thereby supporting their families and enhancing socio-economic development in the region.