The Chairman of Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Prince Chima Ekuma Nkama has called on warring communities, Marta and Ogiri in the state to eschew violence and embrace peace in order to forestall any security breach following a land dispute that erupted in the villages.
Nkama made this call when he met with stakeholders of both communities at Edda North Development Centre secretariat, Oso Edda.
The Council boss warned the warring communities to steer clear of the disputed land as it is now a buffer zone.
The people of Amaeta and Ogiri villages were, on Wednesday, embroiled in a crisis over a disputed land that could have led to possible destruction of properties but was averted by the intervention of the council chairman.
While speaking with the natives, Hon Nkama warned that any native of both communities that violates the directive would be severely penalized by security agencies.
“Let me warn that this directive must be taken seriously. You people must eschew any form of violence in order not to lose out in the current state government led by Governor Francis Nwifuru.
“I urge you all to embrace peace or face the wrath of the law. The primary role of every government is the protection of lives and property, which the state government is determined to do.
“Let me once again appeal to the two neighbouring villages not to engage in any land dispute at this time. It is wiser for you people to dedicate more energy and resources to farming to avoid famine in future.
“Consider this opportunity given to you by the state government to sheathe your sword for peace to reign. Consider the people here who had one or two official engagements today but abandoned them to be here for the sake of peace.
“Therefore, I urge you people to embrace peace. This is not the time to fight; if you fight now instead of doing your farm work, it means famine beckons tomorrow. So, let’s embrace peace.
“By the power conferred on me as chairman of Edda LGA, where these two neighbouring villages are located, I hereby declare the land in dispute a buffer zone, from now onwards.
“It means no native from either Amaeta village or Ogiri village should enter into the area, for farming or any other activity until further notice.
“Take this decision very seriously. Don’t test the waters; Don’t try the government. If anybody goes against this order, I will instruct the security agencies to deal with such a person. So, it’s in your best interest not to violate this directive.”
He then commended the security agencies and stakeholders for ensuring that tranquility and orderliness reigned during the meeting.
