Aguleri–Umuoba Anam Crisis: APC Chairman Anosike Demands Immediate Ceasefire, Dialogue
Senator Emma Anosike
The All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman in Anambra State, Senator Emma Anosike, has expressed deep disappointment over the lingering communal clash between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities in Anambra East Local Government Area, calling on the warring communities to immediately declare a ceasefire and embrace dialogue.
Anosike, who played a vital role in efforts that led to the restoration of peace and law and order in the area between 1999 and 2000, when he represented Anambra East and West Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, lamented the loss of lives and destruction of property in the latest outbreak of violence.
While commiserating with the families of those who lost their lives and sympathising with those injured as a result of the clash, Anosike urged the two warring communities to consider the devastating socio-economic consequences of the conflict, describing the communal crisis as senseless and counterproductive.
He said, “It is indeed unfortunate that brothers and sisters who, in the past, shared love and maintained harmonious relationships could embark on such a senseless crisis that has adversely affected the socio-economic lives of the people.
“I recall that, while I was a member of the Green Chamber representing the area, I and the then Federal Government intervened and worked to restore peace in the area. That peace endured for many years until this recent clash.
“I wish to use this medium to call on the leadership of these two towns to embrace dialogue and urge their youths to bury the hatchet in the interest of peace, development and the future of our people.”he said.
Anosike also condemned the destruction of public and private property, describing it as saddening and economically damaging. He noted that the infrastructure destroyed during the conflict would require substantial public funds to rebuild.
He said, “In an area that is already in need of basic infrastructure, it is indeed unfortunate that the same taxpayers’ money that should be used to improve the lives and property of the people is now being channelled into the reconstruction of public infrastructure destroyed during the conflict.
“This is a needless burden on the government and, ultimately, on the people who are already struggling with the challenges of development.”
The APC chairman urged security agencies to remain vigilant and live up to their constitutional responsibilities by restoring law and order and protecting the lives and property of residents.
However, he cautioned security operatives against using the situation as an opportunity to harass, intimidate or molest innocent citizens under the guise of combating insecurity.
He called on all stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, political leaders and security agencies, to work together to de-escalate the situation, restore confidence and ensure that lasting peace returns to the affected communities.
