June 15, (THEWILL) – Grief and outrage have gripped the families and kinsmen of two Imo-born tilers, Odinaka Thomas (29) and Chimobi Iwuagwu (30), who were allegedly murdered by local security operatives in Anambra State while on a job assignment.
Speaking with journalists in Owerri on Monday, a kinsman of one of the deceased, Mr. Ebiske Uzoma, from Umarugo in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, expressed deep sorrow over what he described as the cold-blooded murder of the young men.
“Odinaka and his friend travelled for a tiling job in Aguata, Anambra State on February 4, 2025. Sadly, in the early hours of February 6, around 4 a.m., operatives of Ebubeagu, Agunechemba, and Udogachi stormed the building where they were working.
“They were ordered to lie down, and three of them were killed on the spot, sparing only one boy who hails from Enugu State,” he narrated.
Mrs. Chidinma Thomas, the grieving wife of Odinaka, broke down in tears as she struggled to speak about the loss.
“I’m in pain. I want my husband back. Our children are missing him every day,” she said in an emotional voice.
The family further revealed that Chimobi Iwuagwu’s wife is heavily pregnant, while his elderly mother has been bedridden for years.
In a telephone interview, the owner of the building where the incident occurred, Rev. Kingsley Onuora—an Anglican priest in the Diocese of Aguata—described the victims as diligent and peace-loving artisans.
“They were not criminals. These boys were hardworking and skilled tilers. I had no reason to doubt their character. I’m still shocked and praying God comforts their families,” he said.
Community leaders including Hon. Chima Iwu, Councillor representing Umueze I Ward, and Agim Charles, the Kindred Head of Umuawuchi Owerre, joined others in calling on the Anambra State Government to launch an immediate investigation into the killings.
They also appealed to Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, and his Anambra State counterpart, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to urgently intervene and ensure justice is served.
“We are crying for justice. These were young men with bright futures. Their killers must be brought to book,” the leaders said.
