Ohafia, Abia State — The Ohafia Local Government Area Traditional Rulers’ Council has paid a compassionate and solidarity visit to HRH Eze (Engr.) Ndukwe Iko, Nnaka IV of Okon-Aku, following the burning of his palace in the wake of the needless killing of a youth in the community.

The visit, led by senior members of the council, was aimed at commiserating with the monarch over the unfortunate incident, which reportedly occurred amid heightened tensions after the killing. The palace was said to have been set ablaze by hoodlums and criminal elements during the unrest that followed the tragic event.

Speaking during the visit, the Traditional Rulers’ Council expressed deep sympathy with Eze Ndukwe Iko and the people of Okon-Aku, describing the attack on the palace as an affront to traditional institutions and communal peace. The council condemned the violence in strong terms and called for calm, restraint, and respect for constituted authority.

The royal fathers also urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate both the killing of the youth and the subsequent arson attack, with a view to bringing all perpetrators to justice. They emphasized that violence and destruction of communal symbols only deepen grief and undermine long-standing cultural values.

In his response, HRH Eze (Engr.) Ndukwe Iko thanked the council for the show of solidarity and concern, describing the visit as reassuring at a difficult moment for him and his people. He called on residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding while lawful processes take their course, stressing the need for unity and dialogue to restore normalcy in the community.

The visit ended with prayers for peace, justice, and the speedy restoration of stability in Okon-Aku.

Long live Eze Nnaka IV.