A truck driver has been shot dead by suspected armed assailants along the Ishiagu/Okigwe Expressway in Ebonyi State, as tensions escalate in the long-standing land conflict between the Umuobor, Akaeze, and Ogwor communities in the Ivo Local Government Area.
The ongoing dispute, which centers around access to fertile land, has led to repeated clashes, resulting in casualties and widespread destruction.
The expressway, a key route for travelers, has become increasingly perilous due to the rising violence linked to the conflict.
Reports suggest that the recent killing is part of a broader pattern of attacks, with at least six people losing their lives in recent weeks.
The suspected warlords, reportedly from the warring communities, have been blocking the road and targeting motorists, causing fear among commuters.
The latest incident occurred over the weekend near the Ayaragu area of the expressway, when a truck driver from Imo State was shot and killed.
According to a local source, “There’s an ongoing war between Akaeze and Ayaragu over a land dispute, and the driver from Imo State was killed on that stretch of the road today. Now, truck drivers from Imo are threatening to block the Okigwe roads to prevent vehicles from either entering or leaving Ebonyi.”
Social media posts from concerned truck drivers have circulated, urging caution on the route.
One message warned, “Please alert the people of Ebonyi—this is a security crisis. Be careful when traveling on this road.”
The State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed he was unaware of the incident at the time of contact.
He indicated plans to follow up with the Ivo Police Division but had no further updates when this report was filed.
