Soludo Sets Up Judicial Panel as Anambra Communities Agree to Ceasefire

Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has convened a high-level peace meeting and established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to address the prolonged conflict involving the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in Anambra East Local Government Area.

The meeting, held at the Light House in Awka, brought together traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam as the state government seeks to end the violence and prevent further loss of lives.

The communities have been involved in clashes that have reportedly resulted in deaths and injuries, while several buildings were destroyed, including the palace of a traditional ruler. Soludo condemned the violence and destruction, describing the continued hostilities as unacceptable.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the governor directed security agencies to maintain a round-the-clock presence in the affected areas. He also assured the communities that the government would pursue peace and justice.

Community leaders, including Igwe Michael Idigo and Fidel Okafor, condemned the violence and highlighted the killing of a minor and an unarmed person from Umuoba Anam, as well as the retaliatory destruction of the Idigo Palace. They called for an immediate end to hostilities and swift prosecution of those responsible.

Representing the Umueri community as an observer, retired Justice Charles Okaa urged all sides to exercise restraint. He also called on the state government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment concerning boundary issues between Umueri and Aguleri as part of efforts to achieve a lasting settlement.

Following deliberations, the stakeholders agreed to an immediate ceasefire and called for perpetrators of violence to be prosecuted. The resolutions also included accountability for community leadership and the rebuilding of the destroyed Idigo Palace.

Soludo said the state government would support the reconstruction of the palace, describing the attack on the traditional institution as an assault on Anambra’s heritage. He said restoring the palace would help restore the dignity of the traditional stool.

The governor also established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine petitions, complaints and historical grievances linked to the crisis. The commission has been given four months to submit its report, while the participating communities pledged to pursue peace and harmonious coexistence.