Obiano imposes curfew on his community,as two die, property burnt in conflict


Governor Willie Obiano has announced curfew on his Aguleri community , Umueri and Umuoba Anam towns, following the outbreak of communal violence in the three towns on Saturday.

In a statement, Governor Obiano said the curfew would last from 7pm to 7am daily, beginning on Saturday, 16th January, 2021.

"The curfew in the first instance will last for three days. Violators of the curfew will be prosecuted" he said.

No fewer than two persons were on Saturday reportedly killed in the renewed Aguleri/ Umueri communal conflict, in the Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Houses, vehicles were also burnt in the mayhem while scores were reportedly wounded

The two communities had between 1998/99 waged war against themselves, where scores of people were killed and property worth millionaires naira destroyed.

An eyewitness, who begged not to be named for security reasons, told our correspondent " two persons are already dead owing to the crisis today"( Saturday)

The source added, "The age-long war between Aguleri and Umueri was ignited this morning over land dispute. The inability of the Governor Willie Obiano government to create boundary between the two towns is the main reason fuelling this latest discord".
The Anambra Police Command which confirmed the incident denied any killing in the clash.
A statement by the command's Public Relations Officer, Haruna Mohammed, said properties, including vehicles and a house were burnt in the crisis, adding that the situation had been broughtt under control and investigation commenced to ascertain circumstances surrounding the incident.


The statement read in part, " On Saturday at about 7.15am there was a report of crisis between Umueri and Aguleri communities both in Anambra East LGA of Anambra State over a disputed area of land which both communities were laying claim of ownership.

"Following the distress,the command quickly dispatched joint police teams comprising PMF/RRS and other conventional units in collaboration with other security agencies led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of operations ,Salman Dogo to the scene.Situation was brought under control, while joint patrol is still ongoing to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

"No loss of lives and injuries have been reported. However,One building,four vehicles and two motorcycles were set ablaze by the warring factions.

"Consequently, the Commissioner of Police ,John Abang , has directed the State CID Awka to carry out discreet investigation in order to ascertain circumstances surrounding the incident and bring perpetrators to book.

"The CP also warned both parties to maintain peace and explore the legal avenues to resolve their grievances without resorting to violence.

"He further assured both parties that he would contact the State Government to intervene in the matter in order to find lasting solution to the lingering problem.

Unending war.dem born me i meet dis war.thank GOD for ife and modakeke.