By Okey Maduforo Awka.
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra state has set up a seven man Commission of inquiry into the communal clash between Aguleri Umuoba Anam Communities in Anambra East local government area.
However government is yet to lift the curfew Imposed on the two communities which is aimed at enforcing law and order in the area.
According to the Secretary to the Anambra state government Mrs Chiamaka Nnake,
“The establishment of the Commission follows the Governor’s directive that the remote and immediate causes of the conflict be thoroughly investigated and that all lawful avenues for enduring peace be explored”
The seven man Commission of inquiry is headed by Hon Justice Nkemdilim Izuakor as Chairman with two clerics of both Catholic and Anglican Churches as well as two Traditional Rulers and Special Assistant to Soludo on boundary matters .
Contained in the Commission’s terms of reference include;
“To determine the remote and immediate causes of the dispute between the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities, and of the crisis which erupted between the two communities between 1st October 2026 and 4th October 2026”
“To determine any factors related to the above dispute which are likely to cause further crisis between the two communities, or involving either of them and any of their neighbouring communities”
“To make recommendations to the State Government on the steps which, in the opinion of the Commission, are necessary to be taken by the State Government to end the dispute and bring everlasting peace between the entire Anam and Aguleri communities, or other affected communities”
The Commission is required to take into consideration all judgments of courts and contractual agreements relevant to the resolution of the dispute.
The Commission is equally expected to conclude the inquiry and present its report to the Governor not later than 28th February, 2027.
Continuing Nnake explained that constitution of the Commission consolidates the peace process initiated by the Governor, who had earlier convened a stakeholders’ peace meeting at the Government House, Awka, bringing together traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam, at which the parties agreed to a total cessation of hostilities and the Governor undertook to establish a commission of inquiry to examine the historical complaints, petitions and other issues underpinning the crisis.
She noted that Governor reiterated that his administration will spare no effort in ensuring that peace, justice and the rule of law prevail, and urges all stakeholders in both communities to cooperate fully with the Commission and to refrain from any act capable of undermining the ongoing peace efforts.
