Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has announced a series of measures to restore peace in the troubled Aguleri-Umuoba Anam area following a deadly communal crisis that claimed innocent lives and caused destruction of property.
The governor disclosed this after meeting with critical stakeholders from both sides of the dispute, including representatives from Aguleri, Umuoba Anam, neighbouring Umueri community and members of the wider Anam clan.
Soludo said he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives, including that of a minor, as well as the destruction of property and the desecration of the traditional palace of the Idigo dynasty.
“The destruction of property and the desecration of our traditional institution, the Idigo Palace, is an affront to everything we hold sacred as Ndi Anambra. It is unacceptable,” the governor said.
He stressed that no community had the right to take laws into its own hands, warning that his administration would not allow further breakdown of law and order in the affected communities.
“No community has the right to take lives or resort to self-help. Government will not tolerate any further breakdown of law and order in that area,” Soludo stated.
Following the meeting, the governor said both parties had agreed to an immediate and total ceasefire to end all forms of hostilities and pave the way for lasting peace.
He added that security agencies had been directed to maintain a strong presence in the affected communities, while all persons linked to the killings and destruction would be identified, arrested and prosecuted.
Soludo also called on traditional rulers and Presidents-General of communities to take more proactive roles in resolving disputes before they escalate into violence.
As part of efforts to restore confidence and preserve the cultural heritage of the people, the governor directed the state government to support the rebuilding of the damaged Idigo Palace.
He described the palace as more than a physical structure, saying it represents the identity, heritage and traditional authority of Ndi Anambra.
The governor further announced plans to establish a Commission of Inquiry to examine historical complaints, petitions and other issues connected to the crisis, with a four-month timeline to submit its report.
Soludo assured residents that his administration would remain fair, firm and committed to ensuring that peace returns permanently to the affected communities.
The Aguleri-Umuoba Anam dispute is one of several communal conflicts in Nigeria where government authorities have continued to seek dialogue, justice and reconciliation as alternatives to violence.
