The Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has granted amnesty to 51 Indigenes of Ekoli Edda in Edda local government area of the State
who were caught in the web of the conflict between the people of Edda, Egbor, and Urugbam in Cross River State.
Governor Nwifuru who noted that the conflict has caused pain, loss, and division among the people stated that the disarmament programme initiated by the Nigerian Army, in partnership with the State Government led to the voluntary surrender of 8 mortar bombs, 29 AK-47 rifles, and 21 pump-action guns.
The State Governor made the disclosure during the granting of Amnesty and empowerment to 51 affected persons in the Ekoli Edda crisis held at the 134 Battalion of the Nigeria Army Ezzilo Barracks in Ishielu Local Government Area.
“The voluntary surrender of 8 mortar bombs, 29 AK-47 rifles, and 21 pump-action guns was a powerful act of faith in the possibility of a better future.
Today, we honour that faith by granting amnesty to 51 of our brothers who were caught in the cycle of violence.
“This amnesty is not just a pardon; it is a promise, a promise of a new beginning, a second chance, and a brighter future. This is not just an event; it is a turning point. It is a moment of redemption, renewal, and hope.
“You are not just receiving amnesty; you are being empowered to take control of your future. Each of you will receive the sum of Two Million Naira as part of our commitment to your reintegration into society.
“The crisis that brought us here today has its roots in the Eastern Region Estate Investment (EREI) Farm Settlement. A project that was meant to be a symbol of unity and prosperity.
“Established by the visionary leadership of Dr. Michael Okpara, the settlement was a testament to what we could achieve when we worked together. But over time, inconsistencies in agricultural policies, mismanagement, and the fragmentation of the settlement across Abia, Ebonyi, and Cross River States sowed seeds of discord.
“The conflict escalated when the Egbor people of Biase Local Government Area of Cross River allegedly leased the NIFOR plantation, which largely belongs to the Ekoli Edda community, without proper consultation.
“This act, coupled with the failure to adhere to the pre-2018 joint harvest arrangement, led to violent clashes that claimed lives, destroyed property, and deepened mistrust among our sister communities.
Governor Nwifuru maintained that the affected communities, Ekoli Edda, Egbor, and Urugbam have suffered greatly.
“In the face of this crisis, the Ebonyi State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other stakeholders, took decisive steps to restore peace.
“The establishment of the Army Forward Operating Base in Urugbam, Biase Local Government Area, was a critical intervention that helped to de-escalate tensions.
“Families have lost loved ones, livelihoods have been disrupted, and the social fabric that once bound these communities has been strained. This conflict was not a reflection of who we are as a people. It was a tragic deviation from our shared values of unity, brotherhood, and mutual respect.
Governor Nwifuru urged the people of Ekoli Edda, Egbor, and Urugbam to embrace healing and reconciliation. The time for healing and reconciliation is now. Let us remember that we are bound by more than just land; we are bound by a shared history, a shared culture, and a shared destiny. Ends.
