The Ebonyi State Government has strongly condemned the recent abduction of five villagers amidst a boundary dispute between the Oso Edda community in Edda Local Government Area and the Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area.
Deputy Governor Princess Patricia Onyemaechi Obila, during a peace meeting held at the Afikpo Local Government Secretariat over the weekend, warned that the state government would sanction any political office holder implicated in the crisis if the abducted individuals are not released immediately.
The meeting, attended by local government chairmen Nwachi Timothy (Afikpo) and Hon. Chima Ekumankama (Edda), along with traditional rulers and stakeholders, emphasized the government’s stance against lawlessness. The Deputy Governor expressed dismay at the extent of violence among neighboring communities, urging peaceful coexistence.
Afikpo LGA Chairman Nwachi Timothy denounced the actions of the Oso community in abducting five individuals, which included three from Amasiri and two from Cross River State. He called for their unconditional release and advised youths against escalating the conflict.
Hon. Chima Ekumankama, Chairman of Edda LGA, criticized the attacks from Idima in Oso and assured stakeholders of efforts to resolve the crisis.
The Development Council Coordinators for the affected areas, Hon. Baron Ogbonnia and Mrs. Nkama Nkama Ude, reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and normalcy between the communities.
The Ebonyi State Government remains dedicated to ensuring harmony among its communities and resolving disputes without resorting to violence.
