The Abia State Government (ABSG) has inaugurated a seven-man administrative panel of enquiry to investigate the recent crisis in Okon Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed a life.
The panel, chaired by retired Justice Kenneth O. Wosu, was inaugurated on Tuesday at the JAAC Secretariat, Umuahia. The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, charged members of the panel to carry out their assignment with diligence, fairness and professionalism.
Prince Nwachukwu said the decision to constitute the panel followed the unfortunate incident that plunged the community into unrest, stressing that the panel would determine both the remote and immediate causes of the crisis.
He noted that the administration of Governor Alex Otti was committed to peace and order across the state and deemed it necessary to thoroughly investigate the incident in order to take appropriate policy decisions.
According to the commissioner, the terms of reference of the panel include investigating the causes of the crisis; identifying individuals, groups or institutions directly or indirectly involved in its escalation; examining the roles of traditional institutions, youth groups and other stakeholders; and reviewing the administrative, socio-economic, cultural and security dimensions of the conflict.
The panel is also mandated to recommend measures for lasting peace and communal harmony, suggest sanctions where necessary against those found culpable, and make any further recommendations in the interest of public peace and sustainable community relations.
Prince Nwachukwu expressed confidence in the capacity of the panel members to deliver on their mandate, thanked them for accepting the assignment, and wished them fruitful deliberations.
The panel has 30 days to submit its report to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Members include Hon. Justice Kenneth O. Wosu (Rtd.) as Chairman; Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd.); Barr. Obinna Chimbuo; HRM Eze Kalu Ogbu; HRM Eze Franklin Nwosu; Mr. Ahunaya George, Head of Service, Ohafia LGA; with Mrs. Charity Okeagu, Director of Chieftaincy Affairs, serving as Secretary.
Responding on behalf of the panel, Justice Wosu thanked Governor Alex Otti for the confidence reposed in them, assuring that the panel would conduct a thorough and impartial investigation in line with the governor’s commitment to peace and progress in the state.
He emphasised that peace and development are inseparable, noting that the panel would work diligently to enable the government take informed decisions to resolve the crisis.
The inauguration was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lady Oge Maduka, alongside management staff of the ministry.
