By Mercy Aikoye
The member representing Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chinedu Ogah, has dismissed allegations of genocide levelled against the state governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, describing the claims as unfounded and misleading.
A human rights activist, Joy Idam, had accused Governor Nwifuru of committing genocide against the Amasiri community amid a protracted land dispute with a neighbouring community, a crisis that has reportedly resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property.
Addressing journalists at a press conference, Ogah firmly refuted the allegations and called on Idam to apologise to the people of Ebonyi State for what he termed inflammatory and false accusations capable of escalating tensions.
The lawmaker maintained that the claims were disconnected from realities on the ground, insisting that Governor Nwifuru has shown commendable leadership in addressing insecurity and resolving communal conflicts across the state.
According to him, several communities had been embroiled in land disputes for more than two decades before the current administration. He said deliberate interventions by the governor, in collaboration with stakeholders and community leaders, have significantly restored peace in many affected areas.
“Before the inauguration of this governor, nearly 10 communities were engaged in various communal clashes. Today, those conflicts have largely been resolved due to proactive engagement and people-centred governance,” Ogah stated.
He explained that following renewed tensions in Amasiri, the governor constituted a panel to investigate the dispute and submit recommendations for implementation. Ogah noted that the curfew imposed on the affected area was a necessary security measure to prevent further violence and has since been relaxed as normalcy returned.
Highlighting the administration’s achievements, Ogah cited youth scholarship programmes, infrastructural development and inclusive governance.
He disclosed that about 400 Ebonyi youths are currently beneficiaries of overseas scholarships in the United Kingdom, with several drawn from Amasiri and other communities. He reiterated that the allegation of genocide is completely false and affirmed that the governor remains committed to peace, stability and sustainable development across the state.
