Gunmen kill community leader in Delta

By SHOJOBI ABISOLA

Following the murder of a community leader, Anthony Oreh, by suspected cultists, a dusk-to-dawn curfew has been imposed on Orhoakpor clan in Ethiope East Local Government Delta State.

It was gathered that a bloody cult clash had engulfed the community on Thursday morning, during which Oreh who was a former vice president of the community was fatally wounded.

According to reports, the community leader was killed while trying to broker peace during a cult attack on the vigilante chairman in the community.

His death led to the imposition of a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the community by the management of Ethiope East Local Government Council.

Meanwhile, the local government has called on all Police formations to enforce the curfew imposed on the community following Oreh’s murder as contained in a statement issued by John Jephthah, an aide to the council chairman.

The statement read:

“Due to the rising threats to the safety of lives and properties in Orhoakpor community, the Ethiope East Local Government Authority has placed a curfew in Orhoakpor community from 7pm to 7am, with immediate effect.

“In the light of the above, all Police formations situated in proximity to Orhoakpor community are hereby ordered to enforce the curfew.

“Accordingly, residents of Orhoakpor community should endeavor to comply to enable security operatives maintain law and order.

“Vehicular movement, inclusive of motorcycles and bicycles, are also restricted in the community during these hours. Essential services and emergencies will only be allowed movement during these hours.

Security operatives will be on patrol and routine check. They have instructions to detain anyone on the road passing from 7pm without proper authorisation.

“I extend my condolences and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of Mr. Anthony Oreh who was gruesomely killed at Orhoakpor Community in the early hours of Thursday, 23 September, 2021

“I want to assure the family members and the general public that the local government council and the security operatives are on top gear to bring the perpetrators to justice. God bless you,” the statement added. (Sunday Independent)