Peace Returns to Oil-rich Anambra Community, as Govt-Panel Resolves Agelong Crisis

A Panel of Inquiry inaugurated by the Anambra State Government to look into the lingering crisis in Ogwuaniocha, a community in Ogbaru Local Government Area, has finally restored peace to the community. 

This followed series of interventions and mediations by the panel between the warring parties in the long-standing crisis, which led to the destruction of structures and loss of lives, including that of the traditional ruler of the community.

Speaking shortly after the peace talk held at the Old Government House, Awka,  the Chairman of the Panel of Inquiry, Justice Calagne Anigbogu noted that the panel was set up to restore peace between two rival youths in the community who were in enmity for years.

Anigbogu stated that the panel interacted with the youths, and they were able to come together as one body of Ogwuaniocha youths to settle the rift between them.

“Peace has finally returned, and we are impressed.

“What the youths presented to us was part of our terms of reference, because the Government asked us to assess the impact of the crisis and what is expected to be done to have lasting peace and progress in the community and that’s what we have achieved,” Justice Anigbogu emphasised.

He further mentioned that they will still assess the damages done with the help of the Technical Committee made up of estate valuers and quantity surveyors, who would do a proper evaluation.

This, he noted, will in turn help the Government to ameliorate the losses through the provision of palliatives.

The Youth President of the Ogwuaniocha community, Engr. Uche Onyedi, while presenting the letter of peace resolution, thanked the state government for the interventions.

Engr Onyedi, on behalf of other youths, pleaded that the state government helps in flushing out elements in the community living in the forest, who have made life unbearable for them, whilst assisting them with resettlement and provision of infrastructures.

Other committee members of the Panel, including Prof. Charles O. Ofoegbu, admonished the youths to continue to live in peace in order to enjoy the amenities of an oil-producing area.