The Palace of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella has condemned in stronger terms the murder of a 23-year-old man, Lucky Afizu, on Friday, describing the killing as a reprehensible act that has no place in the community.
In an official statement released by Palace Secretary, Barr. Akuri Afegbua, His Royal Majesty Michael Olorufemi Sado, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, characterised the incident as “a heinous act of violence” that violates the community’s fundamental values. The traditional ruler stressed that those responsible would be held fully accountable under the law.
The emotionally-worded statement conveyed the monarch’s deepest sympathies to the bereaved family while confirming that immediate action had been initiated to ensure justice is served.
The monarch assured members of the community and family of the victim that the Palace was working closely with relevant authorities to investigate the crime.
He said, two suspects, including the prime suspect, have voluntarily submitted themselves to the police following coordinated efforts between the palace and security agencies.
According to statement, the development came as the Okuokpellagbe personally visited the grieving family after holding an emergency meeting with security officials, offering both comfort and firm assurances that justice would be served.
The palace’s statement left no room for ambiguity regarding its position on the matter.
“No stone will be left unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators of this crime are brought to book,” the declaration read, describing murder as “an abomination” that would not be tolerated under the current traditional leadership, with the Okuokpellagbe emphasising that there would be “no sacred cows” in the pursuit of justice.
“We must allow the due process of law to take its proper course without hindrance,” the statement cautioned, adding that “violence or any form of self-help will only compound our grief.”
The palace urged members of the community not to fall into the temptation of politicizing the ugly incident.
“This dastardly act should not be politicised or connected to any ulterior motive,” the statement urged, expressing concerns about potential exploitation of the situation.
Read full statement below:
OKPELLA KILLING: OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE PALACE OF THE OKUOKPELLAGBE OF OKPELLA
17th May 2025
It is with profound sorrow that we address the tragic and untimely death of a young son of Okpella, Lucky Afizu, whose life was cut short on Friday, 16th May 2025. This heinous act of violence has brought great pain to our community and it has been widely condemned by every well meaning Okpellan.
Once again, we extend Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family during this difficult time.
In response to the incident, we have immediately taken decisive action by working closely with the relevant security agencies to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted. Through these efforts, the prime suspect and one other have voluntarily submitted themselves to the authorities to aid in the ongoing investigation.
Earlier today, 17th May, 2025, after holding a crucial meeting with security personnel in Okpella, We personally visited the family of the deceased to offer Our sympathies and reassurance. We hereby pledge, in the strongest terms, that justice shall be served for the victim and his loved ones.
No stone will be left unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators of this crime are brought to book. The crime of murder is an abomination that cannot and will not be swept under the carpet, not under the watch of His Royal Majesty, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella.
Let it be known that the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, is not only the custodian of our traditions but also a friend to all Okpellans. Hence, every life in this Okpella is sacred, and We shall spare no effort in protecting Our people with genuine commitment. There shall be no sacred cows; those responsible for this reprehensible act will face the full wrath of the law.
We call on our people to remain law-abiding and avoid any actions that may jeopardize the ongoing investigation. We must allow the due process of law to take its proper course without hindrance. Violence or any form of self-help will only compound our grief and disrupt the peace of our community
We urge that this dastardly act should not be politicised or connected to any ulterior motive. The culprits have submitted themselves to the Police and the full wrath of the law will apply.
We also use this opportunity to pledge Our full support for His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, in his fight against violent crimes in our dear state. We stand in solidarity with the government’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
We urge all citizens to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities as they diligently pursue justice. Together, we shall uphold the peace and dignity of Okpella.
Signed
Barr. Akuri Afegbua
Secretary
For: Okuokpellagbe of Okpella
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