From Obinna Uchendu
Abakaliki
The Ebonyi State Government yesterday reintegrated members of the 6 villages of Ndiezechi Community in Izzi local government area of the State who were banished by the community back with their families and called for peace among the members of the community.
The State Government had constituted a restoration of peace committee to resolve the crisis that erupted in Ndiezechi Community which prompted the committee to visit Ndiegu Isu, Ojiegbe Oza, Ndieji Izialime and Atam Izekwe villages affected by the crisis in 2011.
Addressing the people at the Ojiegbe Oza Village Square, the State Commissioner for Border Peace and Conflict Resolution, Dr. Donatus Ilang noted that lives were lost, houses destroyed during the crisis and called on the victims families to accept the peace process initiated by the State Government.
Dr. Ilang directed the leadership and members of the Villages to reintegrate their brothers banished adding that the state government is in possession of the records of all the damaged properties which will act as a working document to restore permanent peace in the area.
He noted that the properties includes, lands of those in exile adding that such lands should be released to them to pave way for final resolution of the crisis.
Speaking also, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Uchenna Igwe called on the people to imbibe the culture and tradition of Izzi land, noting that Izzi people are known for their hospitality and not violence.
He tasked them on the need of living in peace and unity adding that peace and unity attracts development to their villages.
The Chairman, Izzi Local Government, Barr. Stephen Nwakpa noted that since assumption of office, he has resolved many lingering disputes in the LGA and urged the people to embrace the peace been advocated by the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru. Ends.
