A tragic incident in Ibagwa-Aka, Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, has left a family grieving and the community stunned, following the death of four siblings allegedly killed by a self-proclaimed spiritualist.

The victims — Kamsiyochukwu Ezema (7), Ezinne Ezema (6), Ujunwa Ezema (5), and Chinedu Ezema (2) — were reportedly murdered with a pestle by a pastor affiliated with a Sabbath church operating in the area.

While the motive behind the killings remains unclear, local authorities have begun investigations and pledged to bring those responsible to justice.

Chairman of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area, Mr. Ferdinand Ukwueze, described the incident as a painful and disturbing event for the community.

“Our community was shaken by the tragic and heinous murder of four innocent children in Ibagwa-Aka,” he said during a visit to the bereaved family on Saturday. He extended his condolences and assured them of the government’s commitment to justice.

Ukwueze visited the scene of the crime with officers from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies. According to him, some key suspects have already been apprehended, while others remain at large.

“Following preliminary investigations, law enforcement agencies have apprehended some key suspects in connection with the crime, while still searching for others yet at large,” he said.

The premises where the killings took place — reportedly used for unlicensed herbal practices and spiritual activities — have been sealed off on the orders of the council.

“We are fully committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and ensuring that justice is served,” Ukwueze stated.

The children’s parents, Mr. Chinonso Ezema and Mrs. Loveth Ezema, who were not home at the time of the incident, have called for a full investigation.

“We want the police to thoroughly investigate this and ensure the culprit is brought to book,” Mr. Ezema said.

As the community continues to mourn, local authorities have promised increased collaboration with security agencies to enhance surveillance and prevent future incidents.

Efforts to reach the Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to phone calls or text messages seeking comments on the case.