Aguleri-Umuoba Anam Crisis: Aniekwe Commends Soludo, Stakeholders Over Peace Process, Calls for Lasting Unity

By Our Reporter

Member Representing Anambra East and West Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Aniekwe has commended Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, traditional rulers, security agencies and other stakeholders for their contributions to efforts to restore peace between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.

In a statement issued on Friday, Hon. Aniekwe expressed appreciation to individuals and institutions that intervened in the crisis, urging the two communities to embrace lasting peace, reconciliation and unity in the interest of their shared future.

The statement signed by his media aide, Hon. Chukwujioke Ndive Solomon, Hon. Aniekwe, particularly commended Governor Soludo for his intervention and commitment to protecting lives and property.

The lawmaker also appreciating the Mayor of Anambra East Local Government Area, Hon. Sir Ifeanyi Chinweze, for his grassroots coordination and contributions to the peace process.

Aniekwe acknowledged the roles played by traditional rulers and community leaders in mediating the dispute, while commending security agencies for their efforts to restore order and protect residents in the affected areas.

The Rep Member further expressed gratitude to the leadership and people of Umueri, led by Chief Chijioke Smart Nweke, alongside neighbouring communities, for their solidarity, coordination and contributions to the peacebuilding process.

The renewed hostilities between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam erupted on October 1, 2026, amid a longstanding boundary dispute between the neighbouring communities. Reports indicated that the latest confrontation was triggered by disagreements over the erection of a signpost and the installation of security cameras in the disputed area, with both sides contesting aspects of the boundary and land ownership.

The disagreement escalated into deadly violence, resulting in reported casualties, injuries and widespread destruction of property, including residential buildings, shops and other facilities. Reports published in the days following the outbreak put the death toll at five, while the destruction of the traditional ruler’s palace in Aguleri and other properties further heightened tensions.

The crisis prompted the Anambra State Government to intervene, with Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Commissioner of Police CP Nnanna Oji Ama and other officials visiting the affected communities to assess the situation and support efforts to restore order. Governor Soludo subsequently directed the warring parties to cease hostilities and convened stakeholders to address the dispute.

The state government also announced plans for an inquiry into the crisis and pledged to support the rebuilding of damaged structures.

Against this background, Hon. Aniekwe urged the people of Aguleri and Umuoba Anam to consolidate the gains of the reported ceasefire by embracing genuine reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

He stressed that sustainable development could only thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, warning against actions capable of reigniting hostilities.

“We are brothers and sisters bound by a shared geography and destiny. Let us bury the hatchet permanently and look forward to a future built on cooperation, shared progress and deep-seated affection for one another,” Hon. Aniekwe stated.

He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, youth organisations, security agencies and other stakeholders to sustain dialogue and work collectively towards resolving outstanding grievances through peaceful and lawful means.

Hon. Aniekwe further urged residents of both communities to resist reprisals, avoid inflammatory actions and prioritise the safety and welfare of their people.

He maintained that lasting peace would require the collective commitment of all parties, adding that reconciliation and unity were essential to rebuilding relationships, restoring livelihoods and promoting development across Aguleri, Umuoba Anam and neighbouring communities.

#