From Our Reporter
A former Chairman of Afikpo North Local Government Area and current Member III of the Ebonyi State Local Government Service Commission, Mrs. Obiageri Oko Enyim, has called for calm, restraint and constructive engagement following rising tensions between Amasiri and Okporojo communities.
In a statement issued on Monday, Enyim said she was speaking with “a deep sense of concern and responsibility,” urging residents and stakeholders to prioritize peace after the state governor’s recent visit to the affected area and subsequent security pronouncements.
According to her, the governor’s reaction was informed by what he saw on the ground during the visit, stressing that any leader in such a position would naturally be angered by the situation. She cautioned against focusing on challenging the governor’s pronouncement, noting that he remains the Chief Security Officer of the state and a constituted authority.
“What should concern us now is not how to challenge that pronouncement, but how to respond wisely,” she said, warning that any action perceived as defiance of government authority could worsen the situation.
Enyim clarified that the deployment of soldiers to the area was aimed at restoring peace between the two warring communities and not targeted at Amasiri alone. She urged residents to remain calm, lawful and respectful, emphasizing that justice cannot be achieved through chaos or disorder.
“If we truly believe we have a strong case, then it must be presented through pleading, dialogue and explanation,” she stated, adding that peaceful engagement with the government offers the best chance for a fair understanding of the issues.
The former council chairman appealed to the governor to temper justice with mercy and allow room for proper fact-finding, while also calling on individuals and groups allegedly fanning tension to desist immediately.
“No amount of protest, violence or confusion will change the reality of constituted authority,” Enyim warned, insisting that wisdom, patience and maturity would speak in favour of the communities involved.
She concluded by urging all stakeholders, both at home and in the diaspora, to avoid actions that could undermine their cause, stressing that peace and respectful dialogue remain the only viable path forward.
The statement was signed by Obiageri Oko Enyim, “For Peace, Dialogue, and the Interest of Amasiri.”
