An excavator owned by the Ebonyi State Government, deployed for boundary demarcation between the warring communities of Ishinkwor and Abaomege in Onicha Local Government Area, has been reportedly set ablaze by suspected militants.
According to reports, the heavy-duty machine was being used in the demarcation process aimed at resolving a long-standing land dispute between the two neighboring communities, which has claimed many lives and led to the destruction of properties worth billions of naira.
During a media tour of the disputed area, the Chairman of Onicha LGA, Prince Ikechukwu Ogbofia—represented by the Local Government’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Omekanaya Orogwu—condemned the act, describing it as a calculated attempt to derail the peace initiative facilitated by the state government.
Ogbofia stated that those responsible for the sabotage would be brought to justice, stressing that both the state and local governments remain committed to ending the communal conflict and would not tolerate criminal interference with the peace process.
Governor Francis Nwifuru had earlier inaugurated a conflict resolution committee, which recommended a boundary demarcation as a lasting solution. The demarcation work, which began early this year, faced disruption on Tuesday when one of the excavators was destroyed by fire.
When journalists, soldiers, and local officials visited the site on Thursday, the remains of the burnt equipment were still visible. Chief Ogbofia revealed that the arson took place just a week after one of the warring factions allegedly threatened to damage any equipment used in the demarcation unless the process favored their position.
“This deliberate act of destruction will not stop the demarcation,” he said. “Rather, it strengthens our resolve to complete the exercise. No threat or sabotage can halt this initiative, as the state government is determined to find a permanent resolution to the crisis.”
He further assured that security would be intensified in the area to prevent future attacks, noting that the culprits likely emerged from hiding to commit the crime during a brief lapse in security presence.
This incident adds another layer to the complex conflict that has plagued Ishinkwor and Abaomege communities for years. The state government, however, maintains that it will not be deterred in its pursuit of peace and lasting coexistence through structured demarcation and legal enforcement.
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