By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has waded into the boundary dispute between Ikenga and Isiokwe villages in Umueri and Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area of the State, respectively, which recently escalated into violence, leading to the death of one person and the destruction of properties.
The CP’s intervention and effort to restore peace and ensure justice, came to light following his invitation of key stakeholders from both communities to a meeting at the State Police Headquarters in Awka on March 18, 2025, where he explored Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to amicably settle the matter.
During the meeting, CP Orutugu urged the communities to cooperate with security agencies in identifying the suspects responsible for the killing and destruction, emphasizing that justice must be served. He also stressed the importance of using peaceful dialogue to address the underlying boundary issues rather than resorting to violence.
While expressing condolences to the bereaved family, the Police helmsman further encouraged both parties to form a committee that would visit and console the affected families and assist victims who lost properties during the conflict. He further advised them to formally communicate with the government whenever they have concerns regarding land demarcations.
According to him, the aim of the intervention was to prevent further bloodshed and promote lasting reconciliation between Ikenga and Isiokwe villages, as well as the larger Umueri and Aguleri communities.
The CP reassured the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to maintaining peace and order while ensuring that perpetrators of violence are brought to justice.
In their responses, the representatives of the warring communities at the meeting, while appreciating CP Orutugu, unanimously agreed to work together and engage relevant government agencies to clarify any misunderstandings regarding boundary adjustments. They also assured their commitments to fostering peace through community-driven efforts and consultations with relevant authorities, both over the matter at hand and any potential rift.
According to a statement issued to newsmen on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the high-profile peace meeting was attended by His Royal Majesty, Igwe Sir Benneth Izuchukwu Emeka JP (Okebo II of Umueri); HRH Igwe Dr. Michael Idigo (Ezeudo Aguleri); Chairman of Anambra East Local Government, Sir Chinweze Ifeanyi; Presidents-General of both communities, Amb. John Metchie and Mr. Iloakasia Ifeanyi; among other key stakeholders.
