Otuocha, February 4, 2025 — A N2 million reward has been announced for anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the killings during the recent communal conflict between Umuoji, Umuoba Anam, and Egbeagu, Aguleri.
The announcement was made by Chief TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Anambra East Local Government headquarters in Otuocha.
Speaking on behalf of the Anambra East and West Local Government Areas, Chief Nwabunwanne declared that the identities of informants would be fully protected. “We are offering ₦2 million to anyone with credible information that will lead us to those responsible for the killings during this unfortunate conflict. Rest assured, your identity will remain confidential,” he stated.
The meeting, presided over by Dr. Chinedu Emeka, former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, condemned the violence and resolved that perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without delay. Stakeholders emphasized the need to separate disputes over land and fish pond ownership from criminal acts such as killings.
A Peace and Reconciliation Committee was constituted to help restore lasting peace in the affected communities. The committee includes five representatives from each of the warring groups, neutral members from other parts of Aguleri and Anam, the Divisional Police Officers of Anambra East and West LGAs, and the Presidents General of the Umuoba Anam and Egbeagu communities.
Prominent traditional rulers, including HRM Igwe Ben Ekwealor of Umuoba Anam, HRH Law Nwofia of Eziagulu-Otu, His Highness Igwe Joseph Ajodu of Ukwalla, and His Highness Igwe Pius Omachony of Olumbanasa, were present and pledged to support peace initiatives.
The Presidents General of the affected communities were mandated to ensure the recovery of all arms and ammunition from criminal elements. Efforts to document the exact number of lives lost during the conflict were also set in motion.
Chief TonyCollins Nwabunwanne urged residents to cooperate with the authorities and take advantage of the reward offer. “This is a collective responsibility. If you know anything that can help bring the killers to justice, please speak up. We will not rest until peace and security are fully restored,” he said.
The reward underscores the seriousness of the government’s commitment to ensuring justice, peace, and accountability in the troubled communities.
