Gov Soludo Constitutes Judicial Commission Of Inquiry Into Umuoba Anam-Aguleri Communal Crisis

The Executive Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has constituted a Commission of Inquiry into the communal crisis between the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in the state, in line with his commitment to a lasting and peaceful resolution of the dispute.

 

The establishment of the Commission follows the Governor’s directive that the remote and immediate causes of the conflict be thoroughly investigated and that all lawful avenues for enduring peace be explored.

 

The composition of the Commission includes the following members:

1. *Hon. Justice Nkemdilim Izuakor (Rtd)* – Chairman

2. *Ven. Onyinye Ilione* – Member

3. *Rev. Fr. Cyril Elochukwu Mokwe* – Member

4. *C. P. Ndianefo* , Esq. – Member

5. *HRH Peter Chukwuma Anigbogu* – Member

6. *HRH Peter Ezeamama* – Member

7. *Hon. Ekenechukwu Okoye* (Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Boundary Matters) – Secretary

The Commission is also mandated:

1. To determine the remote and immediate causes of the dispute between the Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities, and of the crisis which erupted between the two communities between 1st October 2026 and 4th October 2026;

2. To determine any factors related to the above dispute which are likely to cause further crisis between the two communities, or involving either of them and any of their neighbouring communities;

3. To make recommendations to the State Government on the steps which, in the opinion of the Commission, are necessary to be taken by the State Government to end the dispute and bring everlasting peace between the entire Anam and Aguleri communities, or other affected communities.

In carrying out its assignment, the Commission is required to take into consideration all judgments of courts and contractual agreements relevant to the resolution of the dispute.

The Commission is expected to conclude the inquiry and present its report to the Governor not later than 28th February, 2027.

The constitution of the Commission consolidates the peace process initiated by the Governor, who had earlier convened a stakeholders’ peace meeting at the Government House, Awka, bringing together traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam, at which the parties agreed to a total cessation of hostilities and the Governor undertook to establish a commission of inquiry to examine the historical complaints, petitions and other issues underpinning the crisis.

The Governor reiterated that his administration will spare no effort in ensuring that peace, justice and the rule of law prevail, and urges all stakeholders in both communities to cooperate fully with the Commission and to refrain from any act capable of undermining the ongoing peace efforts.