The Onu Itama, His Royal Highness Chief Job Shagari Ebijego, was brutally murdered by unknown gunmen on Monday evening near his palace in Itama, a community in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State. The incident occurred around 9:00 PM while the monarch was taking a stroll within the vicinity of his palace.
According to family sources, the assassins had been trailing the traditional ruler before suddenly opening fire. The sporadic gunshots caused panic, and the monarch’s subjects and personal guards were unable to react immediately. By the time they could assess the situation, the attackers had fled the scene on motorcycles, leaving the lifeless body of Chief Ebijego on the road close to his palace.
It was revealed that the late monarch had been involved in several chieftaincy disputes and land conflicts with certain groups within the community since he assumed office. These disputes are suspected to have played a role in his assassination.
In response to the tragic killing, youths from the community launched a retaliatory attack on Tuesday morning. They targeted the homes of individuals believed to be behind the assassination, setting them ablaze and destroying property. The violence escalated as more youths joined the fray, leading to widespread destruction.
Law enforcement quickly intervened, with police officers from the Egume Divisional Police Office and military personnel being deployed to the community to restore order. As of Tuesday, at least 12 youths had been arrested in connection with the violence, while many others fled the town to avoid arrest.
The unrest forced residents to abandon Itama, seeking refuge in neighboring communities such as Elubi, Acharu, and Egume. Despite the presence of security forces, the situation remained tense as another group of irate youths reportedly returned to the community on Tuesday night. They looted food items, including large quantities of palm oil, and set additional houses on fire.
The late Chief Job Shagari Ebijego, a retired police officer, was widely respected for his wisdom, fairness, and commitment to the welfare of his people. His sudden and violent death has sent shockwaves throughout the region, with many calling for justice and demanding that the perpetrators be brought to account.
Attempts to reach the Kogi State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Williams Aya, for comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls. Meanwhile, the community remains largely deserted, with residents still in fear of further violence.
