NEWS LEVERAGE

A traditional ruler of Ezi-Orsu Obodo, HRH Eze Victor Ijioma, and the Isama of Mgbele (the traditional prime minister) of the Mgbele community in the same Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State has been assassinated.

The victims were killed on Thursday by yet-to-be-known gunmen in separate attacks at different locations.

HRH Eze Ijioma was apprehended at Umuamaka Junction in Izombe and slain inside his car and his body was set ablaze inside his car.

Meanwhile, residents of the community have fled their homes, and markets are deserted for fear of further killings.

Joint task forces say they have begun an investigation to apprehend the perpetrators.