Awka – Anambra State Government has extended the curfew imposed on Aguleri, Umueri and Umuoba – Anam towns, all in Anambra East local government area of Anambra State by an additional six days.
A 3-day curfew was imposed by the government on Saturday, 16th January, 2021, as part of efforts at tackling the violence that resulted in the loss of two lives and destruction of property, following the resurgence of an age-long land dispute between the two neighbouring communities of Aguleri and Umueri.
The initial curfew was supposed to end on Monday, 18th January, 2021, but has been extended, and will last until Sunday, 24th January, 2021.
TNC correspondent who visited the area gathered that there is still tension and fear of reprisal attacks by the locals in the affected area, despite the heavy presence of security personnel deployed to maintain the peace.
In a chat with TNC correspondent in Awka, the Secretary to Anambra state government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu said that the curfew which is from 7pm to 7am daily, has been extended by additional six days.
According to him, “Governor Willie Obiano has been very pro-active in managing this conflict. The curfew imposition and joint security patrol in the affected communities are among the measures which have helped to de-escalate the situation. The Governor has also set up a 15-man Committee to establish the immediate causes of the dispute between Aguleri and Umuleri communities, and make recommendations to the state government within 3 weeks”.
Professor Chukwulobelu said the state government is desirous of maintaining peace across all Anambra communities, and cautioned residents of the affected communities to strictly obey the curfew order as violators will be prosecuted.
