NEWS
ABIA PANEL OF ENQUIRY SUBMITS REPORT ON OKON AKU CRISIS, AS STATE GOVT MOVES TOWARDS LASTING PEACE
The 7-man administrative panel of enquiry instituted by the Abia State Government to investigate the crisis in Okun Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area of the state has formally submitted its report to the state government, marking a significant step towards addressing the lingering conflict and restoring stability in the affected community.
The empanelling of the panel on 12th January 2026 followed a crisis that erupted in Okun Aku community which led to a casualty in the community, prompting swift intervention by the state government to unravel the root causes and recommend sustainable solutions.
Receiving the report on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the JAAC Secretariat, Umuahia, the Abia state Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, assured that the State Government would meticulously study the document, before issuing a White Paper in that regard.
The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, noted that the document would be studied through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and assured that the outcome would bring lasting peace to Okon Aku 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,” he stated.
Earlier, while presenting the report, the Chairman of the panel, Justice Kenneth Wosu (Rtd), disclosed that the panel received a total of 52 memoranda from individuals and groups following extensive public sensitisation, reflecting widespread engagement and interest from stakeholders in resolving the crisis.
He noted that public sittings were held between January 28 and March 10, 2026, spanning 27 sessions, during which 56 exhibits including documentary and electronic evidence were admitted, underscoring the thoroughness and transparency of the investigative process.
Wosu further explained that the panel undertook an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okon Aku Community and conducted in-depth deliberations, including summoning key individuals to clarify issues and respond to allegations, ensuring that all perspectives were carefully examined.
According to him, the findings revealed that the crisis was traced to several remote causes, including disputes over the management of the Erei Farm Settlement, succession tussles surrounding the Ezogo and Nnaka traditional stools, and longstanding rivalry between the Ndi Uma and Ndi Owo kindreds over traditional authority. He added that the removal of the President of the Okon Aku Development Union (ODU) and allegations of external interference in traditional matters were also identified as contributing factors.
He further noted that the panel identified the immediate trigger of the crisis as the murder of a former youth leader, which escalated tensions and led to widespread breakdown of law and order, including arson and violent confrontations.
Wosu emphasised that some matters uncovered during the investigation are currently sub judice, while law enforcement agencies are continuing investigations into criminal aspects of the crisis.
According to the Chairman of the administrative panel, to address the situation, the panel made necessary recommendations, including the immediate establishment of an all-inclusive Okon Aku Community Peace Committee, government takeover of the Erei Farm Settlement, and thorough investigation and prosecution of individuals implicated in criminal acts.
He expressed confidence that the implementation of the recommendations would pave the way for lasting peace, justice, and communal harmony in the community.
Retired Justice Wosu, on behalf of the panel, appreciated Governor Alex Otti for the opportunity to serve, commending his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. He also extended gratitude to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Lady Oge Maduka, as well as security agencies for their support throughout the assignment.
The report, presented in four volumes including detailed proceedings and compiled exhibits, provides a comprehensive roadmap for resolving the Okon Aku crisis and reinforcing sustainable peacebuilding efforts in Abia State.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd.); members of the panel, and management staff of the Ministry were present at the event, underscoring the importance attached to the report and its anticipated impact on r
estoring peace in the community.