By Chisom Okpala
The Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council (ASTRC), Igwe Chidubem Iweka III, the traditional ruler of Obosi, has called on Aguleri and Umuoba-Anam communities to end hostilities, warning that those responsible for the killings, the burning of the Aguleri Royal Palace and other criminal acts will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Iweka made the call after a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the Light House, Awka, on Oct. 7 as part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s efforts to find a lasting solution to the protracted communal conflict.
He explained that boundary disputes among communities in the Otuocha area, including Aguleri, Umuleri and Umuoba-Anam, had persisted for years, stressing the need for dialogue, restraint and a peaceful resolution.
The traditional ruler commended the Anambra State Government for its prompt intervention, noting that the response of security agencies and relevant authorities had helped contain the crisis and prevent further escalation.
He welcomed the establishment of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine petitions, complaints and historical grievances connected to the conflict and submit its report within four months.
Speaking to journalists, the traditional ruler of Aguleri, Igwe Michael Idigo, expressed concern over the violence but voiced hope that both communities would respect the resolutions reached at the meeting.
“I am looking up to the government to play their part very well, ensuring that the benefit of today’s meeting is not lost,” Idigo said.
He pledged to continue urging youths in Aguleri to exercise restraint and avoid taking the law into their own hands, while calling for the speedy administration of justice.
In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Umuoba-Anam, Igwe George Ekwealor, expressed hope that lasting peace would return to the Omambala communities, sympathising with Igwe Idigo and the people of Aguleri over the burning of the royal palace.
Ekwealor urged residents of both communities not to allow the conflict to destroy their longstanding bonds of brotherhood, emphasising that peace and mutual understanding remained essential to restoring normalcy.
Chisom Okpala is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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