Boundary Killings: Nwifuru Eases Amasiri Curfew, Schools Remain Closed

Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has relaxed the curfew in Amasiri community, adjusting the restriction to run from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., up from the previous 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The adjustment follows reported progress in addressing the deadly boundary dispute that claimed several lives and left others missing.

However, the governor directed that schools in the affected area remain closed until further security assessments are conducted.

Governor Nwifuru reiterated his earlier directive requiring the Amasiri community to produce four human heads and those allegedly abducted during the crisis, warning that more stringent measures would be enforced if the demand is not met. This follows a 72-hour ultimatum issued during the last State Security Council meeting.

Briefing journalists after the latest security meeting, Nwifuru said the curfew adjustment reflects “measurable progress” achieved by security agencies deployed to the community.

“While there are clear social and economic benefits to reopening schools, the prevailing security realities demand caution,” he said, noting that the decision would be reviewed at the next Security Council meeting.

The governor explained that the curfew is a preventive measure aimed at maintaining law and order, as intelligence reports indicated the crisis could have escalated into wider communal clashes involving neighboring areas.

On investigations, Nwifuru disclosed that law enforcement agencies had made significant breakthroughs, including uncovering a shallow grave and recording confessional statements from suspects. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend others believed to be at large, while ensuring the constitutional presumption of innocence is upheld.

In addition to the curfew and school closure, the State Security Council approved urgent measures to restore normalcy to Amasiri and surrounding communities. Operational details were not disclosed for security reasons, but the governor assured residents that government actions are intelligence-driven and focused on preventing further loss of life.

Governor Nwifuru also cautioned against spreading unverified information or inflammatory comments on social media, warning that such acts could undermine security operations and heighten tensions in the region.