Effium Crisis: Ebonyi govt set to free detainees, restore permanent peace in the area

Ebonyi State government has commenced profiling to enable release of those held in detention over the Effium and Ezza Effium crises in Ohaukwu local government area of the state.

 

Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed this Thursday in his home in Oferekpe Agbaja, Izzi local government area.

 

The Governor spoke while addressing Ohaukwu people who visited him on a Christmas homage.

 

Describing Effium and Ezza Effium as kiths and kin, he called on stakeholders of the Local government area to join hands and ensure that peace completely returns to Effium community.

 

He further called on the warning groups to give peace a chance since government was ready to resolve the matter without bias

 

Nwifuru said: “I have heard your request regarding the release of those in detention as a result of the crisis .

 

“I have directed the peace Committee headed by Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu to profile all inmates in various Correctional Centres as a result of the Effium crises.

 

“Unfortunately, in the preliminary findings, it was observed that some inmates who are in the Correctional facilities from the community for some criminal cases are now claiming to be detained because of the communal clash, hence the need for thorough investigation before their release.

 

“So, as soon as the committee is done, they will be released”.

 

The Governor who commended the Ohaukwu people for their sustained collaboration and support to his administration, also urged them to continue to remain partners with government in delivering quality governance to the state.

 

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Senator Anthony Agbo expressed gratitude to the Governor for embarking on projects that have positive impacts on the lives of Ohaukwu people in particular and the entire people of the state in general.

 

He appreciated the Governor Nwifuru for appointing some of their Sons and Daughters into strategic positions in his government, assuring of the people’s continued support for the Governor.

 

He specifically appealed to the Governor to consider the release of their people held in the Correctional Centre for close to four years as a result of the unfortunate crisis.

 

The stakeholders were made up traditional rulers, women and youth groups, political appointees and people from other diverse areas of endeavor, led by the Council Chairman, Ikechukwu Odono.