Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Emetu, has called on communities in the state to prioritize peace and avoid disputes over unauthorized autonomous communities and Eze Elects. He made this appeal during a meeting with members of Amairoke and Orronta communities in Eluama Umuchieze, Umunneochi Local Government Area.
Emetu clarified that only duly certified autonomous communities and Eze Elects are recognized by the government. He stated that Eluama Umuchieze, with Eze Moses Okwale as the certified Eze Elect, is the only legitimate autonomous community in Lokpa Ukwu.
The Deputy Governor emphasized that the Governor Alex Otti-led administration is committed to developing Abia State and is willing to collaborate with stakeholders who support this vision.
“Eluama Umuchieze is blessed with mineral resources;investors are willing to invest;but the continuous disputes are detering them”.
He warned that the government will take decisive action against any group that hinders progress.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, represented by Permanent Secretary Lady Oge Maduka, confirmed that Amairoke is not a recognized autonomous community and has no approved Eze Elect.
The meeting also featured addresses from the Commissioner for Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Prof. Ogbonna Joel, and the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, who urged the community to work with the government and prioritize peace.
The Eze Elect of Eluama Umuchieze, Eze Moses Okwale, and the President General of the community Mr Okafor Jonah, attributed the disputes to the selfish interests of a group from Amairoke and expressed their commitment to peace.
The meeting which had in attendance the Commissioner of Police represented by ACP Enaholo George, Deputy Chief of Staff,Barr Chijioke Nwankwo ,Special Adviser to the Governor on Security,Cmdr Macdonald Uba rtd and others concluded with the formation of a steering committee to oversee mining activities in Eluama Umuchieze Community.
