Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has intensified efforts to end the prolonged crisis between the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in Anambra East Local Government Area.
Soludo convened a high-level peace meeting at the Light House in Awka, bringing together traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam.
The meeting followed renewed violence that reportedly claimed lives, injured residents and destroyed property, including the palace of traditional ruler Igwe Michael Idigo.
The governor condemned the violence and directed security agencies to maintain a round-the-clock presence in the affected communities to prevent further attacks.
Community leaders, including Igwe Idigo and Fidel Okafor, called for an immediate end to hostilities and justice for those responsible for the violence.
They cited the deaths of a minor and an unarmed Umuoba Anam resident, as well as the subsequent destruction of the Idigo Palace, as issues requiring urgent attention.
Retired Justice Charles Okaa, representing the Umueri community as an observer, urged all parties to exercise restraint and called on the government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment on boundary matters involving Umueri and Aguleri.
A major outcome of the meeting was the state government’s commitment to help rebuild the destroyed Idigo Palace.
Soludo described the destruction of the traditional institution as an attack on the cultural heritage of Anambra State and pledged government support for its reconstruction.
Stakeholders also agreed on an immediate ceasefire, prosecution of perpetrators and greater accountability among community leaders.
The state government has further established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate petitions, complaints and historical grievances connected to the dispute.
The commission has four months to submit its report, which is expected to provide a comprehensive assessment of the issues underlying the prolonged conflict.
The peace initiative combines increased security, judicial investigation, accountability and reconstruction in an effort to restore confidence and prevent further violence.
The success of the process will depend on sustained adherence to the ceasefire, accountability for wrongdoing and continued dialogue among the affected communities.
