Former Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has called for immediate cessation of hostilities between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities in Anambra East Local Government Area, urging both sides to sheathe their swords and embrace peace.
The communal clash, which has led to destruction of lives and property, including the burning of palaces, has continued to generate tension in the area.
In a media statement issued on Friday, October 3, 2026, and signed on his behalf by Sir Paul Nwosu, Chief Obiano said he has held a long and fruitful discussion with his successor, Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on the crisis.
According to the statement, Governor Soludo demonstrated clear understanding of the issues and assured that his administration had already intervened, including deployment of police and military personnel to quell further hostilities and prevent escalation.
Chief Obiano, who hails from Aguleri, appealed to both communities to lay down their arms and fully cooperate with the state government and law enforcement agencies to allow for amicable mediation.
He condemned the sacrilegious burning of the palaces of the present and former Igwe Aguleri, as well as other properties around Ama Igwe, but urged restraint to avert further carnage.
The former governor stressed that continued violence would only inflict more pain on the people, while dialogue remains the only path to lasting peace.
He called on stakeholders, traditional leaders, youths and community leaders from both Aguleri and Umuoba Anam to support Governor Soludo’s peace efforts and allow government to get to the root of the dispute.
“Both communities must resist further escalation, cooperate with security agencies and give government the chance to mediate and restore lasting peace,” Obiano appealed.
