Odomi Community Buries Six Victims of Ethnic Violence as Chief Issues Stern Warning Against Further Attacks
The farming community of Odomi in the Nkwanta South Municipality was plunged into deep mourning on Saturday, June 27, 2026, as residents gathered for the mass burial of six individuals killed during recent ethnic violence. The sombre ceremony reflected the heavy toll that persistent tribal tensions have taken on the Oti Region, with families and community members demanding justice and a permanent end to the bloodshed that has destabilized the area. The event was marked by emotional tributes and a collective plea for the restoration of peace and security in a region that has become increasingly volatile. Addressing the grieving crowd, Nana Mbemadon Afenvi, the Chief of Odomi, expressed profound frustration over the recurring nature of the attacks despite ongoing peace-building initiatives. He noted that while the community has consistently sought peaceful resolutions, their patience is wearing thin. Nana Afenvi issued a stern warning to perpetrators, stating that Odomi would no longer tolerate unprovoked aggression against its residents. His address served as both a tribute to the fallen and a firm call for unity among the people to defend their lives and their territory. Beyond the loss of life, the violence has severely disrupted the agricultural activities that form the backbone of the local economy. During the funeral, community leaders highlighted the urgent need for a more robust and permanent security presence to protect the livelihoods of the farming population. Residents called on the government and security agencies to move beyond temporary measures and provide concrete protection, arguing that current interventions have proven insufficient in preventing sudden outbreaks of ethnic-driven conflict. As the community of Odomi begins the difficult process of healing, the broader implications for the Nkwanta South Municipality remain a significant concern. The burial serves as a stark reminder of the fragile peace in parts of the Oti Region. Local stakeholders and security experts emphasize that without a comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of these ethnic disputes—including land ownership and traditional authority—the cycle of violence and retaliatory attacks may continue to threaten the region's development and social cohesion.
