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SOME residents of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo have called on the Federal Government, the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to investigate incidents they said resulted in deaths and injuries in the community.
The residents made the call at a news conference on Tuesday in Abuja, where they raised concerns over security-related incidents they alleged occurred at different times in the community.
One of the speakers, Mr Shamsudeen Aliyu, recounted an incident he said occurred on Oct. 6, 2024, during which he sustained injuries.
Aliyu alleged that one of his companions lost his life in the incident, while he underwent medical treatment following the injuries he sustained.
He also claimed that concerns about his safety had compelled him to relocate from the community.
Another speaker, Mr Dennis Kingsley, said tensions had arisen in the community following disagreements relating to traditional leadership issues and other local matters.
He alleged that some residents were injured during the community’s annual Olimi Festival in May and called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Also speaking, Mr Daniel Aliyu, whose brother, Dickson Aliu, reportedly died on May 16, called on relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
The speakers appealed to security agencies to carry out an impartial investigation and ensure that justice was served where necessary.
In response to the allegations, the Palace of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella recently reaffirmed its commitment to peace and urged residents to remain calm as security agencies investigate the incident.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Okuokpellagbe, Mr Gabriel Emameh, the palace said the incident occurred after activities marking the first phase of the Olimi Festival had ended.
The palace said one person, identified as Dickson Aliu, died, while several others sustained injuries.
It added that security agencies had been invited to provide security during the festival and that measures were taken to prevent the possession of dangerous weapons.
The traditional ruler condoled with the bereaved family and urged residents not to take the law into their own hands, stressing the need to allow investigations to run their course.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the matter.(NAN)
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Tags: Edo Community Justice Killings