Soludo sets up panel to probe Anambra communal crisis

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo

The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has convened a high-level stakeholders’ peace meeting at the Light House, Awka, to address the protracted crisis between the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in Anambra East Local Government Area.

There have been reports of communal clashes between the two communities, which have tragically resulted in the loss of lives and left several persons injured, as well as the burning of several buildings, including the palace of a traditional ruler.

According to a press statement released on Thursday by Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the peace summit brought together traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam.

Aburime said during the meeting that Soludo decried the tragic loss of lives and the widespread destruction of property, emphasising that such lawlessness was entirely unacceptable to the administration.

The statement read, “To ensure compliance, the governor directed security agencies to maintain a robust, round-the-clock presence in the affected zones, reassuring all parties that the government remains firm, fair, and uncompromising in its pursuit of lasting peace and justice across the state.

“Community leaders, including Igwe Michael Idigo and Fidel Okafor, strongly condemned the hostilities, specifically highlighting the tragic killings of a minor and an unarmed person from Umuoba Anam, alongside the retaliatory destruction of the revered Idigo Palace.

“Both leaders were, however, united in a call for an immediate cessation of violence and the swift delivery of justice.

“Speaking as an observer on behalf of the Umueri community, Retired Justice Charles Okaa appealed for restraint and urged the state government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment concerning boundary matters between Umueri and Aguleri as a step toward permanent resolution.”

• ‘Group sensitises residents to safer refuse disposal practices
• Land dispute: Peter Obi urges communities to embrace peace
• Anambra land dispute: Soludo sues for peace, summons stakeholders

According to the statement, following extensive deliberations, the stakeholders reached a multi-point resolution to foster reconciliation and security, including an immediate ceasefire, prosecution of perpetrators, accountability for leadership and rebuilding of the Idigo Palace.

“Condemning the attack on the traditional stool as an assault on the heritage of the state, the governor announced that the state government will actively assist in rebuilding the destroyed palace to restore traditional dignity.

“A Judicial Commission of Inquiry was equally established to thoroughly examine all petitions, complaints and historical grievances.

“The commission was mandated to submit its comprehensive report within four months.

“The historic meeting concluded with a renewed, solemn commitment by all participating communities to embrace peace and harmonious coexistence,” the statement concluded.