The family of Arum Nwagbo in Umuchigbo, Iji-Nike Community, Enugu East Local Government Area of Enugu State has raised alarm over alleged attempts by some individuals to secure the release of two suspects arrested in connection with the killing of brothers, Onyeka Alum and Chukwudi Alum.
The suspects — Chibuzor Ezekiel, popularly known as “Osy Toucho,” and Enyinnaya Kingsley, also called “Ogbogbos” — were arrested on February 11, 2026, and are currently in custody of the State Anti-Cult Squad.
The two brothers were shot dead on October 29, 2025, when violence erupted in the community amid a protracted leadership crisis.
Father Cries Out
Addressing journalists in Enugu on Tuesday, the father of the deceased, Elder John Anike Alum, alleged that credible information available to the family suggests that certain persons within the community are mounting pressure on the Enugu State Police Command to release the suspects.
“We are shocked to hear that some persons are making moves to release these beasts who killed my two sons in cold blood. This is sad. I am still mourning. My family is still mourning. In fact the entire community is still mourning. We know the persons who are making these moves. This is unfortunate,” he said.
The visibly distressed father appealed directly to the Commissioner of Police, Bitrus Giwa, urging him not to yield to any pressure.
“All I and the entire Alum family is asking for is justice. The blood of my sons will continue to cry for justice. We are calling on the Police Commissioner, Bitrus Giwa, not to allow this evil happen. Releasing these men will be like killing my sons a second time. I still believe firmly that the Police Commissioner is a man of integrity. I believe he will ensure that justice is served.”
Roots of the Crisis
The killings were linked to a divisive leadership tussle that followed a community election held on February 20, 2025, in which Chief Afam Joseph Ogbene emerged chairman. His supporters described the exercise as credible and widely attended.
However, a rival faction led by Chief Goddy Ike Ochu rejected the outcome, arguing that it was not Ogbene’s family’s turn to produce the chairman. Many residents dismissed the claim, insisting that the community’s constitution does not recognise any rotational leadership arrangement.
Months of simmering tension culminated in violence on October 29, 2025, when hoodlums allegedly loyal to Chief Ochu reportedly attacked members of the community executive carrying out their duties. The confrontation escalated into gunfire, leaving Chukwudi and Onyeka Alum — said to be close in-laws of Chief Ogbene — dead.
The Police Command subsequently confirmed the incident, launched a manhunt for those responsible, and ordered a full investigation while appealing for calm.
Fears of Renewed Tension
Although relative peace has since returned, the Alum family said the February arrest of the two suspects had rekindled hope that justice would prevail. They now fear that any move to release the suspects could destabilise the fragile calm in the community.
The family called on the Enugu State Government and police authorities to ensure that the suspects remain in custody and are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
For Elder Alum, the demand is simple and resolute: justice for his slain sons must not be compromised.
