Ihiala Monarch Declares 4-Day Mourning, Prayers Over Slain Kinsman, 9 Others

By Praise Chinecherem

Traditional ruler of Ihiala community in Ihiala local government area of Anambra State, Igwe Thomas Obidiegwu has declared a four-day mourning and prayers for the repose of soul of Chief Donatus Onuchukwu and nine others killed by gunmen during burial of late Mrs. Bridget Onuchukwu at Umuike Ubahuekwem Ihiala.

Obidiegwu, in a statement signed by the Palace secretary, Barr Emmanuel Mkpo said the mourning period which started on Monday, January 6th and would end on Thursday January 9th, 2025.

According to the monarch, during the mourning period, a minute of silence would be observed at all public events and gatherings in Ihiala as a tribute to those who lost their lives in the heinous attack.

The traditional ruler further disclosed that a comprehensive profiling of residents of the community would be conducted across all villages of Ihiala to ensure proper identification of residents, and promote heightened vigilance within the community as part of measures to address security concerns.

The monarch also commend Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the prompt and swift actions taken since the incident and his declaration of a state of emergency on challenges of insecurity in Ihiala town as well as pledged full support to all initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security, in the community .

“The people of Ihiala stand united and will continue to support the governor’s efforts to ensure that justice is served, while fostering long-term peace and safety in the town.

“The Ihekamba Onuchukwu family of Umuike Ubahuekwem Ihiala, has long been recognized for their significant contributions to the development of Ihiala community,” the statement adds.