Aguleri–Umuoba Anam Crisis: Anambra Govt Inaugurates Judicial Enquiry, Fixes February Deadline

By Our Reporter

The Anambra State Government has inaugurated a seven-member Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the communal crisis between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam, with a mandate to uncover the causes of the conflict and recommend lasting solutions.

The commission, constituted by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on October 17, 2026, was formally inaugurated at the Light House in Awka, the state capital.

Representing the governor at the inauguration, Deputy Governor Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim charged members of the commission to discharge their duties with diligence, impartiality and professionalism.

He urged them to bring their knowledge and experience to bear on the assignment, stressing the need for a thorough investigation that would help restore peace and strengthen relations between the two communities.

Governor Soludo, through his deputy, noted that the crisis had attracted international attention, underscoring the importance of handling the matter with care and responsibility.

He urged the commission to prioritise peace, justice and the overall interest of Anambra State in its deliberations and recommendations.

Commission Charged to Uphold the Law

Earlier, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tochukwu Nweke, and the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, administered the oath of office to the commission’s members.

Both officials emphasised the importance of adhering strictly to the legal provisions governing the inquiry and completing the assignment within the stipulated timeframe.

They urged the members to approach the investigation with a strong sense of responsibility and ensure the timely submission of their findings.

Chairman Promises Thorough and Impartial Investigation

Responding on behalf of the commission, its chairman, retired Justice Nkemdilim Izuakor, pledged that the members would conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the crisis.

Izuakor also assured the state government that the commission would work within the approved timeline and make recommendations aimed at promoting lasting peace between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam.

The commission is expected to investigate both the remote and immediate causes of the communal conflict and propose measures to prevent further escalation and support peaceful coexistence.

February 28, 2027, Deadline Set

Governor Soludo formally constituted the seven-member panel on October 17, 2026, directing it to submit its report on or before February 28, 2027.

The commission comprises retired Justice Nkemdilim Izuakor as chairman and Mr Ekene Okoye as secretary.

Other members are Venerable Onyinye Ilione, Reverend Father Cyril Mokwe, Barrister C. P. Ndianefo, the traditional ruler of Amansea, Igwe Chukwuma Anigbogu, and the traditional ruler of Engwu-Umuonyia, Igwe Peter Ezeamama.

The commission’s findings and recommendations are expected to guide the state government’s response to the crisis and inform measures to achieve a peaceful and sustainable resolution between the affected communities.

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