Taiwo Popoola
Grief and outrage have enveloped the Nimo community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State following the brutal murder of a prominent traditional titleholder and community leader, High Chief Ogbuefi Ozo Nnayelugo na Nimo, popularly known as High Chief Gbafankiti na Nimo.
The respected elder statesman, who was a member of the prestigious Nimo Royal Cabinet, was abducted in his farm by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.
According to eyewitness accounts, the masked assailants stormed the farm, causing panic among workers who fled the scene, leaving the High Chief vulnerable.
He was taken away at gunpoint.
Despite the reported payment of a N15 million ransom to secure his release, the abductors killed him.
His lifeless body, bearing deep machete cuts to the head, was later found dumped in the same farmland where he was kidnapped — a chilling end that has sent shockwaves through the community.
A source in the community described the incident as “barbaric and senseless,” lamenting that even after the ransom was paid, the perpetrators still chose to take the life of the revered elder.
Security operatives have since cordoned off the area, and investigations are underway to track down those behind the heinous act.
As of press time, the Anambra State Police Command has yet to release an official statement.
The late High Chief Gbafankiti was widely known for his wisdom, generosity, and commitment to peace and development in Nimo.
His sudden and gruesome death has left a painful void, many say will be difficult to fill.
The community is calling on security agencies and the Anambra State Government to ensure the killers are brought to justice and to take urgent steps to stem the rising tide of violent crime in the area.
