On October 7, 2026, Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state presided over a peace meeting between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities at the government House in Awka. The meeting aimed to resolve a protracted land dispute that led to a deadly war on October 1, 2026, resulting in loss of lives and property. Soludo emphasized that no individual or group can rename a town simply because they acquired a part of its land, calling such actions "legally wrong and against common sense."
The governor set up a Commission of Enquiry to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the dispute. He expressed sadness over the tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction of properties, describing the lawlessness as "entirely unacceptable" to his administration. Soludo ordered a ceasefire and directed security agencies to maintain a robust presence in the affected areas to ensure compliance.
Soludo condemned the attack on the traditional stool as an assault on the heritage of the state and promised to assist in rebuilding the destroyed palace and restore traditional dignity. He assured all parties that his government remained committed to lasting peace and justice across the state. The governor empanelled a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine petitions, complaints, and historical grievances.
The Commission of Inquiry has been mandated to submit its comprehensive report within four months. Igwe Michael Idigo, the traditional ruler of Aguleri, and Mr Fidel Okafor, a community leader in Umuoba Anam, condemned the hostilities and called for an immediate cessation of violence and swift delivery of justice. They highlighted the tragic killings of a minor and an unarmed person from Umuoba Anam.
Justice Charles C. Okaa (Rtrd) from Umueri appealed for restraint and urged the state government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment concerning boundary matters between Umueri and Aguleri as a step toward permanent resolution. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by all participating communities to embrace peace and harmonious coexistence.
The peace meeting had in attendance traditional rulers, Presidents General, and community leaders from both communities, traditional rulers from the Anambra South and Central Senatorial Districts, the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, and key government officials. Soludo's administration has taken a firm stance on maintaining peace and order in the state.
The land dispute resolution efforts by Governor Soludo's administration aim to bring lasting peace to the warring communities. The governor's intervention has been seen as a positive step towards resolving the conflict and restoring peace in the region.
Key points
- Governor Soludo sets up a Commission of Enquiry to investigate the land dispute between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities.
- The governor orders a ceasefire and directs security agencies to maintain a robust presence in the affected areas.
- A Judicial Commission of Inquiry has been empanelled to examine petitions, complaints, and historical grievances.
