Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has intervened in the lingering crisis rocking Ekoli Edda community, issuing a stern warning against the possession of firearms by civilians and urging all parties to embrace peace.
The crisis involves the Ekoli Edda community and a former council chairman, Hon. Eni Uduma Chima, who was recently banned for seven years from the community alongside his brother. However, Governor Nwifuru declared the banishment null and void, stating that such action violates the constitutional rights of any Nigerian citizen.
After receiving reports and recommendations from key stakeholders, the governor outlined the state government’s position on several issues raised during the peace dialogue.
“No civilian, no matter who that person is whether Cachiam Boys, Trigger Boys, Amnesty Boys should be found with firearms. Anyone found in possession of arms will be dealt with according to the rule of law,” Nwifuru declared.
Only recognised law enforcement agencies, such as the police, army, and civil defence corps, are permitted to bear arms in the community, he stressed.
Governor Nwifuru revealed that out of seven demands made by Eni Uduma Chima, five were accepted while two were rejected. These include: Agreement to return his MacTalk device, Rejection of the call to dissolve the town union executive, Nullification of the banishment imposed on him and his brother, Warning to the traditional ruler to remain apolitical or resign, Activation and proper staffing of the Ekoli police station.
Additionally, the governor amended a submission by the party chairman, insisting that all stakeholders, not just “any”, must refrain from interfering in the administration of community land and affairs. The traditional institution and the town union executive were declared autonomous and must be allowed to function independently.
The governor also backed the development union president’s request that the activities of the self-styled “Happy Trigger Boys” must cease immediately, noting that anyone involved in unlawful activities would be treated as criminals.
On the issue of fines, Governor Nwifuru supported the community’s decision to impose a fine on Eni Uduma Chima for alleged involvement in looting shops. However, he rejected the original N106 million figure, saying the amount must be reviewed.
“Shops were looted, and we cannot allow that to go without repercussions. However, the fine must be determined here,” he said.
He added that Eni’s alleged statement inciting looting and the involvement of some women in the act will be revisited when a key stakeholder, Norman Si, returns.
The governor also directed that Amnesty Boys return 18 motorcycles and seven phones allegedly seized from community youths. Any denial of these claims will require the individuals to swear oaths at the village square.
As part of the rebuilding process, the villages have reportedly contributed ₦1 million each to help restore the damaged shops.
Governor Nwifuru emphasised that peace must return to Ekoli Edda and that no individual is greater than the community.
“If you are not proud of your community, you are not its pride. Everyone must submit to the community’s institutions for peace to reign,” he concluded.