Written by Ella Michaels
The tragic death of Mrs. Blessing Eze, an Igbo trader and mother of two, has left a community in mourning. Mrs. Eze was brutally murdered by thugs allegedly working for the government over her refusal to pay an unwarranted levy meant for a Muslim Festival on June 6, 2025, at Ifo Market in Ogun State.
The burial of Mrs. Eze at her husband's ancestral home in Okpisi Ohaozara, Ebonyi State, was a moment of grief for the family and the community. Prior to her burial, Igbo traders in Ifo Market organized a Service of Songs for her last respect at RCM Primary School, Ifo, Ogun State. The market was shut down in mourning, with virtually all shops owned by Ndigbo closed.
The Igbo National Union World-wide (INU-W) attended the funeral and described Mrs. Eze's murder as unfortunate and deliberate. In a statement signed by the Admin Secretary, Mazi Austin-Mary Ndukwu, the group lamented the fact that no Igbo governor, political or religious leader, or Igbo group rose in defense of the evil and wickedness perpetrated in Ifo Market.
"As we bid our sister farewell, we enjoin every Igbo person, wherever you are, home or diaspora, to always be eternally vigilant for our enemies are everywhere seeking for our ruin and destruction," the statement read. "Igbo National Union World-wide sounds it loud and clear that never again shall the blood of an Igbo be spilled again without a positive response and reaction from Ndigbo. Never again shall other tribes in Nigeria or beyond use us as human specimen."
The group saluted the courage and efforts of traders in Ifo Market, who ensured that Mrs. Eze did not die in vain. "We will not fail to thank traders in Ifo Market for their diligence in making sure that our sister did not die in vain. INU-W salutes your courage and efforts," the statement added.
The question on everyone's mind is: where were the South East governors and Mrs. Eze's state governor when she needed them most? Why did they not stand up for her and her little kids? The silence from the leaders has been deafening, and it has left many wondering if the lives of Igbo people are of no value.
Justice must be served for Mrs. Eze and her family. The government must take responsibility for her death and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The Igbo community will not forget this tragic incident, and they will continue to demand justice and protection for their people.
JUSTICE FOR BLESSING EZE
The murder of Mrs. Blessing Eze is a stark reminder of the insecurity and injustice faced by many in Nigeria. It is a call to action for all Nigerians to demand better from their leaders and to stand up for their rights. The Igbo community will not rest until justice is served for Mrs. Eze and her family.
