Grief and outrage have gripped Nimo community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State following the gruesome murder of a respected traditional leader, High Chief Ogbuefi Ozo Nnayelugo na Nimo, popularly known as High Chief Gbafankiti na Nimo.
The elder statesman, a distinguished member of the Nimo Royal Cabinet, was abducted by masked gunmen while working on his farm. Eyewitnesses say the attackers stormed the area, sending workers fleeing and leaving the High Chief vulnerable. He was taken at gunpoint and later killed, despite reports that a N15 million ransom had been paid to secure his release.
His body, marked by severe machete wounds to the head, was discovered dumped in the same farmland where he was taken — a development that has sent shockwaves through the community.
“This is barbaric and senseless,” a distraught community member said. “Even after collecting the ransom, they still killed him. It’s evil in its purest form.”
Security agencies have cordoned off the area, and investigations are ongoing. However, as of the time of this report, the Anambra State Police Command has not issued an official statement.
High Chief Gbafankiti was revered across Nimo for his wisdom, philanthropy, and dedication to peace and community development. His violent death has left a deep and painful void in the town.
