A case of attempted murder and threats to life involving a prominent royal family in the Egbuoma community in Imo State has sparked concern among residents as the struggle for succession intensifies.
A custodian of the royal “Ofo” (Staff of Office), Ugali Chike Philip, narrowly escaped an attack by unknown gunmen while returning home with his family for the Egbuoma Day cultural festival on December 30, 2023.
The incident, which occurred near the village market square close to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, has drawn widespread attention as the police launched investigations into the identity of the assailants.
According to a police report signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Michael Falede of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and addressed to the Commissioner of Police, the attack is believed to be linked to ongoing power struggles within the community.
Chike Philip, by inheritance, is responsible for transferring the sacred royal staff to the next traditional ruler. This has allegedly made him a target of factions within the community who desire the throne.
The report indicates that Philip’s life, as well as those of his wife, Courage Obaedo, and their two children, Kamsi Jenson and Kamso Jayden, have been seriously threatened by unknown individuals. The threats are believed to be orchestrated by persons determined to eliminate obstacles to their royal ambitions.
Philip, who has since gone into hiding with his family, stated that the threats began following the mysterious disappearance of the last traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Eze Okorie Ogbuehi, and his Prime Minister, three years ago. Some community members believe their disappearance was part of a calculated move to seize control of the royal stool.
The police report also reveals that despite efforts to protect the Ugali family, no arrests have been made, and the identity of those behind the attack remains unknown. However, the investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement officials are working to uncover the individuals responsible for the threats.
The police have advised the complainant, Ugali Chike Philip, to remain vigilant and avoid lonely areas. They have also urged him to report suspicious movements or individuals around him as investigations continue.
In the meantime, the Ugali family has retreated from public life, living in constant fear of further threats.
