Ebonyi State governor Francis Nwifuru has appealed for peace to the warring groups in the lingering communal crisis between the people of Effuim and Ezza Effuim communities in Ohaukwu local government area of the state.
Governor Nwifuru stated that the state government is ready to resolve the matter without bias and urged the stakeholders of the local government area to join hands and ensure that peace completely returns to the community
Governor Nwifuru made the call weekend when Ohaukwu people paid him Christmas homage in his country home, Oferekpe Agbaja.
Ebonyi Communal War: Ezza-Effium Community Rejects Peace Pact
He described the people of Effium and Ezza Effium as kit and kin, adding that his administration would stop at nothing to ensure that a lasting peace was witnessed between them.
Speaking on those held at the Correctional Centre in connection to the crisis, Governor Nwifuru said, ” I have heard your request regarding the release of those in detention as a result of the crisis. I have directed the peace Committee headed by Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu to profile all inmates in various Correctional Centres as a result of the Effium crises.
” Unfortunately, in the preliminary findings, it was observed that some inmates who are in the Correctional facility from the community for some criminal cases are now claiming to be detained because of the communal clashes, hence the need for thorough investigation before their release
“So as soon as the committee is done, they will be released”.
The governor commended Ohaukwu people for their sustained collaboration and support to deliver good governance.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Senator Anthony Agbo expressed gratitude to the governor for embarking on projects that have positive impacts on the lives of Ohaukwu people and appointments of their sons and daughters into strategic positions.
He appealed to the governor to consider the release of those who have been held in the Correctional Centre for close to four years as a result of the crisis.
