October 29, (THEWILL) — Emmanuel John Igboko has been allegedly shot dead by a member of a local vigilante group, Eze Ibiam Irem, during a traditional ceremony in Unwana, Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The tragic incident occurred on the night of October 25, 2025, during the “Ebikpo” cultural celebration, an age-long ritual, marking part of the Ogo initiation process for young men in the community.
The Ebikpo festival is a revered tradition, where initiated men move around the community singing satirical songs to correct social vices and moral misconduct. It is considered a taboo for women or uninitiated men to witness the rites, usually performed under the cover of night.
According to community sources, Emmanuel, fascinated by the cultural practice, joined his peers in the celebration, but met his death when the group entered the compound of Eze Ibiam Irem, a supposed vigilante member.
One eyewitness, Chilezie Duke, told THEWILL that Eze, on sighting the group, allegedly ordered them to leave his premises and later returned with a gun, shooting Emmanuel at close range.
“He was not armed or violent. He only came to participate in a cultural event his people have practised for generations”, Duke said.
Emmanuel reportedly died on the spot, while his companions fled in fear. His body has been deposited in a morgue, while the alleged shooter is said to be on the run.
The incident has thrown the Unwana community into mourning and sparked outrage over the conduct of local vigilante operatives and the misuse of firearms.
Confirming the development, the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, said the Command has launched a manhunt for the suspect, adding that investigation into the matter is ongoing.
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