On October 6, 2026, Governor Soludo convened a high-level stakeholders meeting at the Light House in Awka, Anambra State, to address the protracted conflict between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities. The meeting brought together traditional rulers, Presidents-General, and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri, and Anam. Also in attendance were traditional rulers from Anambra South and Central Senatorial Districts, the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, and key government officials.
Governor Soludo decried the tragic loss of lives and widespread destruction of properties, emphasizing that such lawlessness is entirely unacceptable to his administration. He directed security agencies to maintain a robust presence in the affected zones, reassuring all parties that the government remains firm, fair, and uncompromising in its pursuit of lasting peace and justice. The Governor also established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine petitions, complaints, and historical grievances, with a mandate to submit its report within four months.
Community leaders, including Igwe Michael Idigo and Hon. Fidel Okafor, strongly condemned the hostilities, highlighting the tragic killings of a minor and an unarmed person from Umuoba Anam, alongside the retaliatory destruction of the revered Idigo Palace. Both leaders called for an immediate cessation of violence and swift delivery of justice. Retired Justice Charles C. Okaa appealed for restraint and urged the State Government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment concerning boundary matters between Umueri and Aguleri.
The stakeholders reached a multi-point resolution to foster reconciliation and security, including an immediate ceasefire, prosecution of perpetrators, accountability for leadership, and rebuilding of the Idigo Palace. The Governor announced that the State Government will assist in rebuilding the destroyed palace to restore traditional dignity. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by all participating communities to embrace peace and harmonious coexistence.
The conflict between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities has resulted in significant human and material losses. The Governor's decisive move aims to restore public order and ensure compliance with the law. The establishment of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry is expected to provide a comprehensive understanding of the crisis and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.
Key stakeholders, including traditional rulers and community leaders, have expressed their commitment to the peace process. The Governor's administration has assured that it will work tirelessly to ensure lasting peace and justice in the state. The rebuilding of the Idigo Palace is seen as a significant step towards restoring traditional dignity and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The Anambra State Government's efforts to resolve the communal crisis have been commended by various stakeholders. The Governor's commitment to fairness and justice has been seen as a positive step towards promoting peace and stability in the state. The outcome of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry is expected to provide a lasting solution to the crisis and promote harmonious coexistence among the communities.
Key points
- Governor Soludo establishes a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine the communal crisis between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities.
- The commission is mandated to submit its comprehensive report within four months.
- The State Government will assist in rebuilding the destroyed Idigo Palace to restore traditional dignity.