By Chioma Nwamah
The Anambra State Boundary Committee, chaired by Deputy Governor Dr. OnyekaChukwu Ibezim recently convened to assess its progress and also ratify resolutions on some boundary issues affecting a number of communities.
Dr. Ibezim stressed the importance of peaceful resolution, noting that insecurity situations in our society today is predominantly attributed to boundary disputes.
He warned that communities should desist from resorting to self help by taking up arms in the bid to determine boundaries but to rely on lawful means of either approach the State Boundary Commission or go court in other not to risk acquisitions of such lands by government in the interest of peace. Adding that the life of any individual worth more than any expanse of land as far government is concerned.
The committee encouraged speedy concensus resolution of existing boundary issues to prevent miscreants and land grabbers from exploiting the situation. Dr. Ibezim warned that communities should desist from unilaterally placing unauthorised boundary signages which is capable of fanning crisis, stressing that such activities must be carried out by government agencies authorized by the law to do so.
Present were representatives from 10 different communities, including Umudunu/Ifite Agbaja Abatete and Adazi Ogidi. Osile Ogbunike, Amuche Nkwelle and Umuobam Umunya. Enugwu Agidi and Ukwulu.
Enugwu Agidi and Ukpo, in their vote of thanks to the committee, appealed for expeditious actions in terms of the establishment of boundary monuments in their affected areas as soon as possible and expressed hope for lasting peace amongs the communities involved.
The committee members, in their various contributions futher appreciated the communities for their cooperation and emphasized the need for peaceful coexistence as well as the importance of the importance of creating awareness on issues of land ownership.
The meeting was attended by state Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu, the state Deputy Cheif of Protocol Hon. Emmanuel Obieze, Permanent Secretary Dr. Florence Idigo-Ibenta, SSA on Boundary Hon. Ekenechukwu Okoye, SSA Legal Barr. C.C Chukwudi, Surveyor General of the state Surv. Anthony Idigo, the state Director DSS representatives of the state attorney general, commissioner of police, comptroller Immigration as traditional institution was also represented by HRH Igwe P.N. Ezeamama of Enugwu Umuonyia and HRH Igwe S.I. Chidubem of Umumbo amongst other top government officials.
~CHIOMA NWAMAH-AHAMEFULA