Follow Us on Google
From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Imo State Government has intervened in the recent clash between youths of Ohi Autonomous Community in Owerri and cattle rearers operating in the area, with both sides initiating peace talks aimed at restoring lasting harmony.
The reconciliation meeting was held at the palace of the Sarikin Hausa in Owerri and brought together leaders of the Ohi community and the Hausa community in the state.
Speaking at the meeting, the President General of Ohi Autonomous Community, Victor Azunnaya Ogbuehi, emphasized the need for cordial relations and said his priority as PG is to secure peaceful coexistence.
“I demonstrated leadership by making sure there was peace. I want us to peacefully resolve this issue,” Ogbuehi said.
“Our farms and crops are our means of survival, so I am appealing for peace. If peace is established, it will be good for us. We need you people and you people need us.”
Ogbuehi also thanked the Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodinma on Northern and Islamic Affairs for his handling of the crisis. He added that the Ohi community is willing to release portions of its land to the herders if that will prevent further encroachment on farmlands.
Responding, Hon. Suleiman Ibrahim Suleiman, SA to Governor Uzodinma on Northern and Islamic Affairs, described the people of Ohi as “loving and hospitable” who have long opened their arms to strangers.
He pledged to do everything possible to restore peace and urged Ohi residents to avoid confrontation and instead report any herders found on their farmlands to his office going forward.
Suleiman also thanked Governor Uzodinma for his intervention, describing the governor as “God’s sent to the people of Imo State.”
Alhaji Abdulahi Umaru, Sarikin Fulani, appreciated the Ohi community for its understanding and promised to maintain a peaceful and cordial relationship with residents.
The Ohi delegation included: Chief Kennis Ogazie, Palace Secretary of Ohi Autonomous Community, representing the Traditional Ruler, Eze Engr. D.A. Nwereuzu, Hon. Onwuso Uzoma, PRO, Ohi Development Union and Mohamed Abdullahi representing the Hausa community.
The conflict reportedly stemmed from herders’ cattle encroaching on Ohi farmlands, a recurring source of tension between farmers and pastoralists in parts of Imo.
Government officials say follow-up meetings will be held to implement the agreements and prevent a recurrence.
