By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom
Umuahia, May 5, 2026
Gov. Alex Otti of Abia, on Tuesday, received the report of the seven-member administrative panel of enquiry set up to investigate the violent crisis in Okon Aku Community in Ohafia LGA of the state.
Speaking at the presentation of the report in Umuahia, Otti gave assurance that the government would thoroughly study the document before issuing a White Paper on its recommendations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that crisis erupted in the first week of January, following the alleged killing of a youth leader of the community, Mr. Igwe Akuma.
The incident triggered off violent clashes, arson and wanton destruction of property, worth billions of naira, in the area.
NAN also reports that the Abia Government, on January 12, inaugurated a seven-member administrative panel of enquiry to investigate the crisis.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Uzor Nwachukwu, said that the report would be reviewed through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
He expressed the optimism that the implementation of the recommendations would restore lasting peace in the community.
“The report will be carefully reviewed, and the White Paper that will follow shall form the basis for implementation.
“These are established administrative procedures, and I am confident that the outcome will bring lasting peace to Okon Aku once the recommendations are fully implemented,” Otti said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the panel, Mr. Kenneth Wosu, said that the committee received 52 memoranda from individuals and groups after extensive public sensitisation.
Wosu, a retired Justice, said that the panel held public sittings between January 28 and March 10, spanning 27 sessions.
He said that 56 exhibits, including documentary and electronic evidence, were admitted.
He said that the panel also embarked on an on-the-spot assessment visit to the community and summoned key individuals to clarify issues and respond to allegations levelled against them.
According to him, the crisis was traced to disputes over the management of the Erei Farm Settlement, succession tussles surrounding the Ezeogo and Nnaka traditional stools and longstanding rivalry between the Ndi Uma and Ndi Owo kindreds over traditional authority.
Wosu further said that the removal of the President of the Okon Aku Development Union and allegations of external interference in traditional matters also contributed to the crisis.
He said that some issues uncovered during the investigation were already before the courts, while security agencies were continuing investigations into criminal aspects of the crisis.
He said that the panel recommended the immediate establishment of an all-inclusive Okun Aku Community Peace Committee, government takeover of the Erei Farm Settlement and prosecution of persons involved in criminal acts.
He expressed the confidence that the implementation of the recommendations would promote lasting peace, justice and communal harmony in the area.
Wosu commended the Otti administration for its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
He also appreciated the government and security agencies for their support to the panel during its assignment.
NAN reports that the panel report presented in four volumes, containing detailed proceedings and exhibits, is expected to serve as a roadmap for resolving the Okon Aku crisis and strengthening peace building efforts in the state.
