A fresh protest in Amanuke community, Awka North Local Government Area, has emerged, with demonstrators insisting that the prolonged crisis in the community is due to a leadership tussle rather than land grabbing. This follows a previous protest where some individuals were accused of illegally selling community lands.
The new group of protesters staged a peaceful demonstration at the Zone 13 Headquarters of the Nigerian Police Force in Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area, and at the Anambra Government House in Awka. They refuted claims that the community’s conflict is driven by land disputes, explaining that the individuals accused of land grabbing are not guilty, and called on the government and police to avoid being misled.
Mr. Nnawobu Okafor, the oldest man in the town, and Chief Nwafor Ezebuilo, the community’s custodian, stressed that the leadership crisis, not land disputes, is the root cause of the unrest. They lamented the erosion of respect for tradition, driven by greed and materialism. The elders pleaded with the state government to disregard the allegations of land grabbing and focus on resolving the leadership issues plaguing the community.
They also expressed fear for their lives, noting that the community’s youth have ignored the advice of their elders, leading to further violence and destruction. They called for the government’s intervention to restore proper leadership and bring peace to Amanuke.
Several community members, including former Woman President General Mrs. Ngozi Okuefuna and youths Christopher Igwedinma and Ikechukwu Ofuorah-Nwafor, commended the Nigerian Police at Zone 13 for their swift response, which resulted in the arrest of one of the alleged instigators of violence. They criticized those spreading false claims about investors and leaders in the community, accusing them of using propaganda and intimidation to maintain control.
In response, Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Political Matters, commended the protesters for their peaceful approach and assured them that the Soludo administration is committed to resolving conflicts across the state. He confirmed that the government is working with security agencies to restore peace and urged the community to allow the proper authorities to address the situation.
