Edo community war over leadership leaves two dead, triggers state probe

A deepening leadership struggle in the Iyanomo community of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Edo State, has erupted into deadly violence, leaving two men dead and triggering a full scale investigation by the state government.

The victims, identified as Eboh Enomwa and Stephen Imaghodo, were reportedly killed in the aftermath of violent clashes between rival factions jostling for control of local leadership structures. The killings have ignited tensions in the area and prompted swift action from the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

In a statement released Monday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the government confirmed the deaths and announced that the investigation would be spearheaded by the state’s special security squad codenamed “operation flush out cultists and kidnappers” in collaboration with other security agencies and community leaders.

By Saturday, a government-backed investigative team led by CSP Osaro Roberts, Chief Security Officer at government house, and Okoh Saturday, Principal Security Officer to the Governor, was on the ground in Iyanomo. Their mission being to uncover the facts behind the fatal incident and identify those responsible.

“The Governor has directed us to ensure that all those involved are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. No one is above the law,” said Barrister John Izegaebe, secretary of the security squad, during the team's field visit.

He confirmed that preliminary findings point to a leadership tussle that spiraled out of control. “Our findings so far point to a leadership tussle between two rival factions in Iyanomo, which degenerated into violence and ultimately claimed the lives of two men. This is unacceptable,” Izegaebe stated firmly.

He added that the state government views any form of communal violence, cultism, or lawlessness as a direct threat to public order and would respond with full legal force. Izegaebe also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and vowed that justice would not be delayed or derailed.

The presence of the investigative team brought a measure of calm to the shaken community, with many residents expressing relief at the government’s rapid intervention. Locals appealed for a sustained security presence to forestall further bloodshed and restore lasting peace.

As tensions linger beneath the surface, the government’s response in the coming days may determine whether Iyanomo returns to stability or slips further into crisis. For now, the community watches and waits with both fear and hope.