Violence has erupted in Onicha Olona, an agrarian community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, where one Mr Jerry Nkeweshe, a land grabber allegedly assaulted and killed 64-year-old man, Mr May Anwuzia, the Community town crier.
Sources in the community told THEWILL that Ishiekpe Quarters Onicha Olona had been in turmoil for quite some time, following a land dispute between Jerry and the entire community. They alleged that Jerry, aka Babies, is a known ally and political hatchet man to the former Deputy Senate President, Senator Omo Agege.
An elder in Ishiekpe Quarters said Jerry had forged a power of Attorney which he and his cronies were using to forcefully sell the community land without recourse to members of the community.
He added that the community had petitioned the AIG zone 5 on the nefarious activities of the land grabber.
According to findings by THEWILL, the incident that led to the death of the town crier, unfolded last week Tuesday, when Mr Anwuzia (deceased) was asked to announce a meeting summoning members of the community for an important discussion.
Getting home after the public announcement, a group of thugs led by Jerry Nkeweshe, allegedly invaded the town crier’s (Anwuzia) House, While questioning his authority and permit to make the announcement, he was allegedly attacked, dragged and beaten to a stupor.
“They also made away with the gong he uses to make the announcement and even went to deposit it at Zone 5 police station Benin claiming that the said Anwuzia was calling on the people to come out and protest against him.
“Unfortunately, the town crier suffered severe fractures and body injuries, which he sustained from the assault and was taking medication at the general hospital Onicha Olona before he eventually passed on yesterday, 12th of Oct 2024”, an eyewitness in the town told THEWILL.
Meanwhile, following the death of the town crier, violence has erupted in the Community with reprisal attacks, leaving a number of houses and motorcycles burnt.
Residents are calling on the governor of Delta state and the commissioner of police to quickly step in before it turns into a full-blown crisis.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Edafe Bright, who spoke on the development, confirmed that three prime suspects have been arrested and are in the custody of the Police.
“Yes, on this matter, we have arrested three prime suspects but one of the members of the community died in the process of fighting for Justice. But the Police is on top of the matter.”
