The Ezinano community in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State, has announced a ₦10 million reward for anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the recent mass shooting in the neighboring Nibo community. During the tragic incident, which took place two weeks ago at the ‘Onwa Asaa festival,’ over 13 people lost their lives when gunmen attacked the festival venue, shooting indiscriminately.
Anambra State Police confirmed that the incident was a “cult-related clash” involving residents of Ezinano and Nibo, which share a common boundary. To support efforts to apprehend the attackers, Ezinano leaders revealed the reward during the second annual “Ezinano Day,” an event celebrating the community’s culture and unity.
Ozo Chief Jeff Nweke, a prominent community leader, condemned the violence, declaring that Ezinano would not tolerate further attacks or cult-related activity in their community. “We will not rest until justice is served,” Nweke asserted, urging anyone with information to step forward and help bring the perpetrators to justice. “A ₦10 million reward has been set aside for anyone with information leading to the capture of those responsible for this atrocity.”
In addition to the reward, Nweke unveiled a ₦100 million empowerment fund dedicated to supporting rural women in Ezinano. The fund, starting with an initial ₦50 million, aims to foster economic development by supporting women-led initiatives in the community. “Our commitment to a prosperous and peaceful Ezinano includes empowering women, as they are essential to unlocking our community’s full potential,” he emphasized.
This empowerment initiative aligns with Ezinano’s broader commitment to peace, prosperity, and resilience in the face of recent adversity, reflecting the community’s resolve to overcome violence through unity and development.
