REPORTER: UCHE NDEKE
The Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has constituted a Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the communal crisis between the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities, in line with his commitment to a lasting and peaceful resolution of the dispute.
The Commission, chaired by Justice Nkemdilim Izuakor (Rtd), has Ven. Onyinye Ilione, Rev. Fr. Cyril Elochukwu Mokwe, Mr C. P. Ndianefo, Igwe Peter Chukwuma Anigbogu and Igwe Peter Ezeamama as members, while Ekenechukwu Okoye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Boundary Matters, will serve as the Secretary.
The committee is mandated to determine the remote and immediate causes of the dispute and the crisis which erupted between the two communities from the 1st to the 4th this month ,identify factors likely to trigger further crisis involving either community or their neighbours, and recommend steps necessary for everlasting peace between the Anam and Aguleri communities and other affected areas.
A statement issued by the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake says the Commission is required to take into consideration all relevant court judgments and contractual agreements.
The Commission is expected to conclude its inquiry and submit its report to the Governor not later than the 28th of February 2027.
Its constitution consolidates the peace process earlier initiated by the Governor, who convened a stakeholders’ peace meeting at the Government House, Awka, involving traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam, at which the parties agreed to a total cessation of hostilities.
The statement noted that Governor Soludo reiterated that his administration will spare no effort in ensuring that peace, justice and the rule of law prevail.
He urged all stakeholders in both communities to cooperate fully with the Commission and refrain from any act capable of undermining the ongoing peace efforts.
