The Ebonyi State Union in United Kingdom and Ireland has commended the state Governor, Francis Nwifuru, for his prompt, decisive, and courageous intervention in restoring calm to the crises area of Okporojo in Oso Edda, Edda local government area and Ndukwe Amasiri in Afikpo local Government Area, stressing that the swift deployment of security measures, including the imposition of a curfew, demonstrated responsible leadership and undoubtedly prevented a further escalation of violence and loss of innocent lives, wider breakdown of law and order at a time when emotions were heightened .
In a statement, the union however, decried the negative effects of the crises in area and called for dialogue in restoring lasting peace.
The statement reads in part;
"The Communal clash between Okporojo Oso Edda and Amasiri
We, the members of Ebonyi State Union United Kingdom and Ireland (ESU UK & Ireland), write with deep concern following reports of the unfortunate communal disturbances between the people of Amasiri and Okporojo, Oso Edda.
"It was with sadness and profound dismay that we received news of the violence, particularly through distressing images and reports circulated on social and mainstream media. This development is especially painful to us, given the long-standing historical, cultural, and familial ties between both communities.
"Indeed, Amasiri and Okporojo share common ancestral lineages, matrilineal bonds, inter-marriages, and kinship networks, making the conflict not only regrettable but deeply distressing to all Ebonyi indigenes at home and in the diaspora. Amasiri and Okporojo share similar blood lines through well know matrilineal origin of ikwu, the Ibe udu’s Ibe Omagha’s Ewankporie’s among others. The loss of lives and destruction of properties among people bound by blood and shared heritage is deeply painful and distressing.
"Your Excellency, we wish to sincerely commend and appreciate your prompt, decisive, and courageous intervention in restoring calm to the affected areas. The swift deployment of security measures, including the imposition of a curfew, demonstrated responsible leadership and undoubtedly prevented a further escalation of violence and loss of innocent lives, wider breakdown of law and order at a time when emotions were heightened .Your actions once again affirm your reputation as a leader committed to peace, security, and the protection of all Ebonyi citizens.
"We also acknowledge with gratitude your proven track record in resolving long-standing communal conflicts across the state, including the Effium/Ezza, Isi Nkwo/Abaomege crises, among others.
"These interventions have not only restored peace but have written your name indelibly in the history of Ebonyi State as a unifier, a bridge-builder, and a governor who places human lives above all else.
"In the same spirit, we humbly appeal for your continued fatherly intervention in the Amasiri and Okporojo crisis, with a view to achieving lasting peace, reconciliation, and unity between the two communities.
"We firmly believe that through dialogue, negotiation, and inclusive engagement, the cycle of violence can be brought to a final and permanent end.
"As a diaspora body that has existed since the creation of Ebonyi State, from the tenure of our founding president, Dr. Mark Abani, to the present leadership, ESU UK & Ireland has remained steadfast in projecting the image of Ebonyi State positively abroad. We have consistently supported development initiatives at home through scholarships, educational support, and peace advocacy, all of which align with the vision and values of your administration.
"In further demonstration of our commitment, and in solidarity with the affected communities, ESU UK & Ireland has resolved to provide humanitarian assistance valued at ₦2,000,000 (Two Million Naira) to both Amasiri and Okporojo, Oso Edda communities to alleviate the hardship faced by families during this difficult period.
"At our most recent general meeting, a minute silence was observed in honour of those who lost their lives, from both communities, in the conflict.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to all bereaved families and pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.
"Your Excellency, we respectfully appeal that justice be pursued through lawful means by identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators of these grievous acts, as justice remains a critical pillar for sustainable peace. We are confident that with peace restored, normalcy, including the reopening of schools, free movement of people, goods, and services will resume, enabling the full realisation of your administration’s developmental objectives in both communities.
"We reaffirm our unwavering confidence in your leadership, wisdom, and diplomatic capacity to bring Amasiri and Okporojo together in reconciliation and mutual coexistence. As a union in the diaspora, we remain committed to supporting your administration and encourage our people to embrace dialogue over conflict, understanding that peace is the only path to progress.
"Your Excellency, you have assurances of our highest esteem and continued support."
Yours faithfully,
Osuu Chief OTU ChUKWU-ETU
President General, Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Dr. Francis Ama Kalu
Secretary General, Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Dr Akanu Obasi
Vice President
Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Dr Nnanna Igwe
President Emeritus
Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Mr Chima Olugh
President Emeritus
Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Mr Emmanuel Emeka Umoke
President Emeritus
Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Engr Kama Oka
President Emeritus
Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
Dr Mark Abani
President Emeritus
Ebonyi State Union UK/Ireland
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