Anambra state government has inaugurated an eight man panel of inquiry into the Alanonugwe and Odekpe communal crisis, in Anambra West local government area.
The panel, which was inaugurated at the Government House Awka, is to ascertain the immediate and remote causes of the communal dispute between Alanaonugwe and Odekpe communities, and advise state government on ways to ensure that communities in Anambra West learn from the recent crisis of the neighbouring communities in the local government area.
Government House Correspondent, Emmanuel Okonkwo reports that
the panel is also charged with the responsibility of ascertaining the involvement of the major actors including the traditional rulers and stakeholders, reconcile both communities and proffer a lasting solution to the crisis.
The peace committee has the traditional ruler of Igbariam community, Igwe Kelly Nzekwe as its chairman and Permanent Secretary, SSG’s office, Dr Emma Ude-Akpeh as the Secretary.
Other members of the Panel include, the member representing Anambra East and West at the National Assembly, Honourable Chinedu Obidigwe, traditional ruler of Owelle community, Igwe Anthony Onyekwere, traditional ruler of Ukwalla, Igwe Joseph Ajodo, traditional ruler of Ifite-Anam, Igwe Sylve Nnose, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties, Mr. Nwabufo Nwankwo, and Mr.
Patrick Udoba, representing Anambra West at the state Assembly.
Inaugurating the Committee, Governor Willie Obiano represented by his Deputy, Dr Nkem Okeke charged them to handle the issue with all sense of responsibility, and ensure that permanent peace is restored in the area at the end of their assignment.
Governor Obiano, who regretted that communal crisis, still exists in the state, called on the state’s residents to avoid crisis as it is detrimental to the growth and development of any society. UPSOT Responding on behalf of the Panel, the chairman, Igwe Nzekwe thanked Anambra state government for choosing them to handle the communal dispute, and promised that they will do all that is necessary to restore lasting peace in the area.
Contributing, the member representing Anambra East and West at the National Assembly, Honourable Obidigwe while describing the dispute between the two communities as disheartening, called on them to sheath their swords and give peace a chance, as according to him only peace can attract development and government’s presence in the area.
Credit: ABS