Residents of Azuofia Edda community in the Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, who were severely affected by communal conflicts, have called on the government to prioritize the demarcation of the disputed land between them and their neighboring community in Cross River State to restore lasting peace.
Mr. Innocent Igwe, Chairman of Zone Five Azuofia Edda community, made the appeal during the distribution of relief materials donated by Ebonyi-born businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Monday Elom.
The relief effort, aimed at easing the hardships of war victims, included essential items such as two cows, over 100 bags of rice, cartons of Maggi seasoning, salt, assorted drinks, and cash gifts, and took place at St. Mary’s Primary School, Azuofia Edda.
Igwe, a retired Headmaster, expressed concern over the deteriorating state of basic infrastructure in the community, including schools, health centers, boreholes, and roads, all of which have become non-functional.
He urged both state and federal authorities to take urgent action to address these issues and alleviate the suffering of the residents.
The war victims included 45 widows, more than 100 elders, orphans, and other vulnerable individuals who have borne the brunt of the violence that erupted from a boundary dispute in 2017.
Elom, Chief Executive Director of Molompet Nigeria Limited, expressed that his donation was a way to alleviate the ongoing suffering of his people, highlighting the lack of government presence and support in the aftermath of the conflict.
The philanthropist lamented that despite the crisis ending years ago, the community continues to face neglect, with over 150 graduates living in the area without employment opportunities.
He appealed to stakeholders, including political leaders and well-meaning organizations, to do more for the community.
“I urge our political leaders, especially Governor Francis Nwifuru, Senator Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, and other stakeholders, to come to the aid of this war-torn community,” Elom stated.
“The people are suffering—80% of their farmlands have been taken, many homes were destroyed, and infrastructure is in ruins. It is time for action to address the devastation and improve their living conditions.”
Elom also expressed disappointment over the state of education and healthcare in the community, noting that most schools were burned down during the war and have yet to be rebuilt.
He stressed the importance of providing educational facilities and healthcare to help the community rebuild.
Igwe concluded by acknowledging the contributions of local figures like Elom but called for more to be done, especially in providing employment opportunities for the youth and addressing the community’s basic needs.
“Our people are struggling, and the government must take decisive steps to bring relief,” he said.
