Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has taken decisive steps to address the protracted boundary dispute between the Ishiagu and Akaeze communities in Ivo Local Government Area by designating the contested land as a buffer zone. The directive, issued through a press statement by Grace Umezuruike, Secretary to the State Government, highlights the governor’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
In active voice, the governor declared the disputed land off-limits to both sides, emphasising that violators would face the full force of the law. He instructed security agencies to increase their presence in the area to enforce the directive and prevent any further escalation of hostilities. According to the statement, the governor expressed grave concern over the longstanding conflict between the people of Umobor in Akaeze and Ogwor in Ishiagu, which has led to the loss of lives over the years. The directive is part of his administration’s effort to prevent further bloodshed and foster lasting peace.
The two communities, Umobor and Ogwor, have been entangled in decades of fierce land disputes, resulting in violent clashes and fatalities. Governor Nwifuru’s intervention aims to halt the cycle of violence and provide a platform for constructive dialogue. He has emphasised that his administration will not tolerate further disregard for peace and will employ all necessary measures to maintain law and order.
The governor has observed that the crisis has persisted due to a lack of resolution mechanisms. He actively engaged security personnel and community leaders to implement his directives and ensure that the land remains inaccessible until a peaceful agreement is reached. Conversely, it was noted in the statement that previous attempts at reconciliation had been hindered by recurring violence, further necessitating the designation of the land as a no-access zone.
As part of his approach, the governor has placed responsibility on community stakeholders to demonstrate leadership and commitment to peace. By inviting 20 representatives from each side to the upcoming meeting, he hopes to facilitate open dialogue and chart a path toward resolving the dispute amicably. It is expected that these discussions will yield actionable resolutions to end the hostilities and restore harmony between the two communities.
The governor’s proactive measures have been welcomed by observers who believe that declaring the land a buffer zone is a crucial first step in de-escalating tensions. At the same time, some have raised concerns about ensuring strict enforcement of the directives and preventing further incursions into the disputed area. Security agencies have assured the public of their readiness to implement the governor’s orders and maintain peace in the affected region.
In reflecting on the broader implications of this crisis, it becomes evident that the Ishiagu-Akaeze boundary conflict underscores the need for improved land dispute resolution frameworks in Nigeria. Prolonged disputes, like this one, often spiral into violence, claiming lives and destabilising communities. Governor Nwifuru’s actions not only seek to address the immediate crisis but also set a precedent for handling similar issues across the state.
In conclusion, Governor Nwifuru has made it clear that peace and order remain top priorities for his administration. By declaring the disputed land rich in resources a buffer zone, directing security reinforcements, and inviting stakeholders to a peace dialogue, he has demonstrated a balanced approach to conflict resolution. While the ultimate success of these measures will depend on the cooperation of all parties involved, the governor’s decisive actions signal a strong commitment to ending the violence and fostering unity in Ebonyi State.
