One person dies and scores sustain injuries in a renewed land dispute between Amaeze Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities in Anambra East Local Government Area.
The Anambra State Police Command confirms the death and says its operatives deploy to the area to restore peace and maintain law and order.
The Command, through its spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, also dismisses reports that a microfinance bank in Aguleri suffers arson during the clash.
The dispute dates back to 1999. It originates when Amaeze Aguleri gives a portion of its land to Umuoba Anam on trust, while Umuoba Anam later allegedly claims ownership of the land. The matter previously attracts the intervention of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
Meanwhile, former House of Representatives member for Anambra East and West Federal Constituency and 2027 APGA candidate, Chief Chinedu Obidigwe, intervenes and commences dialogue with leaders of both communities.
In a statement, Obidigwe expresses concern over the development and commiserates with affected families. He appeals to both sides to remain calm and avoid further violence.
He stresses that Amaeze Aguleri and Umuoba Anam remain neighbours bound by history and notes that the dispute involves only two villages and must not escalate into a full conflict between the entire Anam and Aguleri communities.
He warns against any attempt to portray the disagreement as a war between the larger communities, saying violence benefits no one.
He calls on community leaders, elders, stakeholders and relevant authorities to urgently engage both sides in sincere dialogue to restore lasting peace, insisting that dialogue, reconciliation and peace must prevail for the sake of present and future generations.
Source/Razor
