By Douglas Princemola
A sad event happened in Umudibia Nekede Autonomous Community, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. A landlord, Mr. Aloy Ekeocha, who is from the community, is accused of killing his tenant, Mr. Anthony Nwanna, also known as Alila. Alila was from Mbutu in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State and worked as a building contractor and carpenter. The trouble started over unpaid rent and a notice to leave the house.
The tenant, Alila, was reportedly taken by the vigilante group from Umuokoto Nekede. He was allegedly tortured by them, which led to his death. His body was then taken to an unknown mortuary.
When journalists talked to Mr. Ekeocha at the Umuokoto Village Council Hall, he said they had settled the issue with Alila before hearing about his death. Ekeocha denied that Alila died because of the vigilantes. However, news gathered by reporters suggests that Alila died from the torture inflicted by the vigilantes.
The Traditional Ruler of Umudibia Nekede, Eze Merenini, and the Chairman of Umuokoto Village Council, Mr. Emmanuel Ugwuegbulam, have been accused of hiding the crime. When journalists contacted them, they denied knowing about the incident but admitted they had heard rumors. Mr. Ugwuegbulam also said that his office had not received any official reports about the problem between Mr. Ekeocha and his tenant.
Despite their denials, both leaders acknowledged that they had discussed the matter with people from Mbaise to resolve the issue without involving the police or journalists.
People living in Nekede are worried about the rising number of attacks by landlords and their vigilante groups. They are calling on the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, to investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are punished.
This incident shows the need for better ways to solve conflicts and the importance of addressing the reasons behind violence in communities. It also highlights that community leaders must protect the rights and safety of all residents living in the community.
