From Enyinna Omoke, Abakaliki
It was celebration galore at Ojiegbe Oza village square when the Ebonyi State Government’s delegation on the restoration of peace in some villages in Ndiezechi visited most of the villages affected by the 2011 crisis namely; Ndiegu Isu, Ojiegbe Oza, Ndieji Izialime and Atam Izekwe.
Addressing the people on Friday at Ojiegbe Oza Village Square, the State Commissioner for Border Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Donatus Chukwuma Ilang called on the people whose properties were damaged, houses destroyed, and loved ones killed to forgive and accept peace, praying that God will replenish them in folds.
Mr. Ilang therefore, directed the leadership and members of the Villages to reintegrate their brothers, noting that the Government has the records of the damaged properties which will act as a working document to restore permanent peace in the area.
Ilang stressed that the properties including the lands of those in exile should be released to them to pave the way for the final resolution of the crisis.
In his remark, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Uchenna Igwe charged the people to imbibe the culture and tradition of Izzi land, noting that Izzi people are known for their hospitality and not violence.
Uchenna Igwe also reminded them of the importance of living in peace and unity which he said will attract development to their villages, promising that his office will liaise with the Executive Chairman of Izzi Local Government Area to attract development to the area.
Also speaking, the Hon. Commissioner for Internal Security, Prince Etta Uka Ude enjoined the villagers to shun violence and see themselves as brothers to enable them to enjoy the goodies that will come from this administration especially now that their son is the Governor of the State.
Speaking earlier, the Executive Chairman of Izzi Local Government Area, Mr.Stephen Nwakpa declared that his administration has resolved many lingering disputes in the LGA and urged the people to embrace the peace being advocated by the present administration of governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.
Lending his voice, the Town Union President of Ndiezechi Community, Chief Chidi Ogbonna, appreciating the Honourable Commissioner for Border Peace and Conflict Resolution for his efforts so far in resolving the crisis in the state, described him as a peacemaker. He highlighted the importance of peace in the Communities of Ebonyi State, noting that development can only thrive in the atmosphere of peace.
Chief Chidi Ogbonna thanked the Governor and the Government of Ebonyi State for resolving the lingering disputes that have been ravaging some villages in his Community, promising to monitor compliance with the peace resolution and report back to the Government.
