The Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has signed into law the creation of five new autonomous communities in Ohaukwu Local Government Area. The landmark decision is aimed at restoring peace and stability to the communal conflict between Ezza-Effium and Effium clans, which has been ravaged by violence since January 2021.
The brutal crisis, sparked by a struggle over market control and motor park revenue, has claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed properties worth billions of naira. Despite numerous interventions, peace had remained elusive until now.
Governor Nwifuru, speaking during the signing ceremony held at the Ochudo Centenary City, New Government House in Abakaliki, expressed optimism that the new law would bring lasting peace. He revealed that the Ebonyi State House of Assembly approved the creation of the five communities, three designated for Effium natives and two for the Ezza group, as a fair solution to the long-standing conflict.
The governor did not mince words in condemning elements within the warring factions who have resisted the initiative, accusing them of profiting from the bloodshed. “Some people have been feeding off this crisis,” he declared. “They don’t want peace because this war has become their source of income. But enough is enough.”
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Calling out those sabotaging peace efforts, Nwifuru issued a stern warning: “Let anyone who thinks he is God dare the government. We are ready for any eventuality, and we will use every available means to bring peace to this land.”
He described the conflict as a tragedy sparked by personal greed, lamenting how a dispute between two individuals over market control spiraled into a full-blown communal war. “It is a very unfortunate incident,” he said. “We have lost so many lives to a war that never should have started.”
Governor Nwifuru emphasized that his administration is committed to peace with dignity and respect for human life, and will not tolerate any attempt to derail the state’s progress. The newly signed law is expected to take immediate effect, paving the way for the official recognition and administration of the five new communities.
