A member of the House of Representatives representing Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency, Chinedu Ogah, has dismissed claims of genocide levelled against Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, describing the accusation as unfounded and misleading.
The allegation was raised by human rights activist Joy Idam, who accused the governor of orchestrating genocide in Amasiri community following a prolonged land dispute with a neighbouring area.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Ogah called on the activist to retract her statement and tender an apology, stressing that the claims were inflammatory and not reflective of the situation in Ebonyi State. According to him, the state government has consistently implemented peace-building initiatives to resolve communal crises and strengthen security across affected communities.
He noted that prior to Governor Nwifuru’s administration, several communities were embroiled in violent communal clashes. However, through dialogue-driven interventions and community-based governance, many of those disputes have reportedly been settled.
On the renewed tension in Amasiri, the lawmaker explained that the state government established an investigative panel to examine the root causes of the crisis. A temporary curfew was also imposed to contain violence and protect residents. The curfew, he added, was later relaxed following an improvement in the security situation.
Ogah further highlighted key achievements of the current administration, including youth empowerment programmes, infrastructure expansion, and educational development. He cited the award of overseas scholarships to about 400 Ebonyi youths and the ongoing construction of classroom blocks in various parts of the state as part of efforts to promote inclusive development.
The federal lawmaker maintained that the genocide allegation lacks merit, arguing that the governor’s policies have focused on restoring peace, ensuring stability, and driving sustainable development across Ebonyi State.
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