Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
A professional group, Ebonyi South Peace Initiative, has called on the State Government to beef up security along the axis of the Abaomege and Ishinkwo boundary demarcation which is ongoing to avert any form of attack or shooting by those plotting to halt the demarcation process.
The group also warned against any form of attack, harassment and disruption of the ongoing boundary demarcation along the disputed land noting that those championing the halting of the process are the true enemies of the both communities.
The Secretary of the group, Mr. Ezaka Ifeanyi, maintained that any attempt to disrupt the demarcation process might result to renewed hostility between the two communities that have already embraced peace and called on all parties to remain calm until the processes are completed.
He commended the peace imitative and political will of the State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, to ensure amicable resolution of all communal crises in Ebonyi adding that almost all the communities that have been at war are now embracing peace.
“In Ebonyi State, it is one communal crisis or the other. It’s either between the people Abaomege and Ishinkwo, or the People of Ezza Effuim and Effuim or the people of Akaeze and Ishiagu but today, no single community is engaged in communal crisis again.
“The case of Abaomege and Ishinkwo will not be an exception. The Council Chairman of Onicha, Mr. Ikechukwu Ogbofia, who is also disposed to peace has ensured that the people of the area embrace peace and end the over 127 years of killings and destruction of properties.
The Chairman of the group, Pastor Eugene Nwagu, described as unfounded the allegation against the Chairman of the local government that he was a “trigger man” in past conflicts as completely unsubstantiated.
“There is no evidence or legal proceedings to support this claim. Even if he had a history of involvement, his current role demands neutrality, and he has conducted himself accordingly.
“If there were genuine concerns about his conduct, the proper approach would be to provide documented evidence rather than rely on hearsay.”
“The claim that Hon. Ogbofia is “personally financing” the demarcation is false. As Chairman of Onicha LGA, he administers government funds for the project, ensuring due process is followed.
“If there are concerns about financial transparency, the appropriate response would be to request an audit not to question his authority based on origin.”
He further maintained that the people of Abaomege have consistently embraced peaceful dialogue and legal means in handling the boundary issue and have remained committed to respecting constituted authorities.
He noted that the people have demonstrated patience, even when decisions have not always been in their favour.
