Hope is returning to parts of Abia State and the wider South-East as renewed efforts by the region’s governors to resolve border conflicts and push for the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, begin to take shape.
At the September edition of his monthly media parley, “Governor Otti Speaks to Abians and Residents”, held at Government House, Umuahia, Governor Alex Otti restated his administration’s commitment to peace, security and regional stability. He noted that the South-East Governors’ Forum was working collectively on security, integration and development.
Iheosu’s long wait for homecoming
Responding to questions on the fate of Iheosu community in Arochukwu LGA, which has lived in exile since 2018, Otti said Abia, Cross River and Akwa Ibom deputy governors have been mandated to spearhead peace talks and facilitate the community’s return.
The community was sacked in 2018 when armed youths from neighbouring Cross River invaded at night, forcing residents to abandon their homes, farmlands and valuables. The Ututu–Ikot Okpora federal road was blocked, cutting off all movement, while schools, churches and the weekly market collapsed.
Since then, Iheosu residents have lived in scattered exile across Isu, Arochukwu, Ututu and Ihechiowa, struggling to survive on menial jobs and calling for a resolution to the crisis.
Otti linked the violence to “unverified reports of abundant limestone deposits in the disputed area,” adding that his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has been leading discussions in Abuja with counterparts from neighbouring states and the National Boundary Commission (NBC).
South-East pushes for Kanu’s freedom
On the clamour for Kanu’s release, Otti confirmed that the South-East Governors’ Forum is actively engaging the federal government. He urged patience, stressing that talks are sensitive and details cannot be made public to avoid undermining progress.
He expressed optimism that both the peace process for displaced border communities and the negotiations for Kanu’s release would soon yield positive outcomes.
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