By Sunny A. David, Awka
The Anambra State Government has brokered a ceasefire between the warring Aguleri and Umuoba-Anam communities in Anambra East Local Government Area following renewed violence that claimed lives and led to the destruction of property, including the historic Idigo Palace.
The peace agreement was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by Governor Chukwuma Soludo at the Light House in Awka, where traditional rulers, community presidents-general and other key stakeholders from the affected communities gathered to seek a lasting solution to the crisis.
Governor Soludo condemned the violence and warned that the state government would no longer tolerate self-help, attacks on lives and property or the destruction of cultural heritage.
He described the destruction of the Idigo Palace as an attack on the heritage and traditional institution of the state, assuring the people that the government would support efforts to rebuild the palace and restore its dignity.
The governor also directed security agencies to maintain a strong and continuous presence in the affected areas to prevent further violence and protect residents and their property.
Community leaders, including Igwe Michael Idigo and Hon. Fidel Okafor, condemned the killings and destruction recorded during the crisis.
They expressed concern over the reported killing of a minor and an unarmed Umuoba-Anam resident, as well as the subsequent destruction of the Idigo Palace, and called for an immediate end to hostilities and justice for the victims.
Speaking as an observer on behalf of the Umueri community, retired Justice Charles Okaa appealed to all parties to exercise restraint.
He urged the state government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment relating to boundary issues involving Umueri and Aguleri, describing its implementation as a possible step towards achieving a permanent resolution to the longstanding dispute.
At the end of the meeting, the stakeholders adopted a number of resolutions aimed at restoring peace and strengthening security in the affected communities.
The resolutions included an immediate and total ceasefire, prosecution of persons found responsible for the violence and greater accountability among community leaders.
The state government also established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the crisis, examine petitions, complaints and historical grievances connected to the dispute, and make recommendations towards a lasting resolution.
The commission is expected to submit its comprehensive report within four months.
The latest peace initiative is expected to provide a framework for reconciliation between the communities and prevent further loss of lives and destruction of property in the area.
