Terrorists killed Paulinus Ekwueme, the traditional ruler of Ochia, and security operatives in Imo State on Friday night.
The attack took place at the boundary between Assa and Ochia communities in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area.
Ekwueme had returned from abroad earlier in the week and arrived in Owerri on Friday before he set out for his village.
A source familiar with the incident said the terrorists struck the monarch’s convoy.
The source added that the attackers shot some security operatives who travelled with him and set the bodies ablaze afterwards.
The source also noted that Ekwueme had left the community some time earlier after a disagreement with local people.
Imo State Police Command spokesperson Henry Okoye confirmed the killing.
He said Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso immediately deployed a tactical team across Ohaji/Egbema to restore calm and begin an investigation.
Okoye added that the police have launched a hunt for those responsible and will track them down wherever they hide.
He explained that full details on the number of casualties remain unclear for now.
The incident has left residents of the area in mourning.
Security teams continue to patrol the local government area as investigations proceed.
