A prominent chieftain of the ruling Labour Party in Abia State, Maduka Zachary, known popularly as “Power Zac,” has reportedly been brutally beheaded in his own home.
This gruesome incident has sent shockwaves throughout the region.
Maduka Zachary held several crucial roles within the political landscape of Abia State. He served as the Campaign Director of the Labour Party during the highly contested 2023 elections in Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of the state. Additionally, he was the Campaign Director for Hon. Amobi Ogah, the member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi federal constituency in the House of Representatives.
Notably, the late Zachary was also the Chairman of the Uturu Union, a position that held significant influence within the local community.
Reports indicate that this gruesome and shocking incident occurred within the confines of his own Uturu country home. The assailants responsible for this heinous crime remain unidentified, and they reportedly took away his head.
What adds to the complexity of this situation is that Maduka Zachary was actively involved in the local security efforts aimed at combating the escalating insecurity in Uturu. This suggests that his murder might be connected to these efforts, although the motive remains unclear.
Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Moureen Chinaka, revealed that she had not yet been briefed on this tragic incident. She assured that she would gather information promptly and provide further updates on this deeply distressing development.
“I’m yet to be briefed. I have no information for now with regard to that. So, I will get back to you when I’m briefed”.
However, the Chairman of the Labour Party in Abia State, Ceekay Igara, has verified the incident. He noted that he had a conversation with the LP Local Government Chairman in the area, who also independently confirmed the tragic event.
”I have spoken with the Chairman of our party in the LGA and he confirmed it. He said it might not be unconnected with insecurity because the man was strong in the fight against insecurity and cultism in that region.”
According to him, the incident occurred during the night on Tuesday.
Insecurity has posed a significant challenge in the Uturu, Okigwe/Umunneochi/Isiagu axis, spanning across three states. The presence of bandits has transformed the region into a perilous zone, making travel in the area a daunting task. Kidnappings for ransom have surged, extending even to the Enugu Port Harcourt Expressway.