Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the longstanding communal crisis between Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in Anambra East Local Government Area.

Soludo announced the commission after a high-level stakeholders’ peace meeting held at the Light House, Awka, on Wednesday.

The meeting brought together traditional rulers, presidents-general and community leaders from Aguleri, Umueri and Anam, as well as representatives of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council and government officials.

The governor expressed concern over the loss of lives, injuries and destruction of property arising from the clashes, including the burning of the palace of a traditional ruler.

He directed security agencies to maintain a round-the-clock presence in the affected areas to prevent further violence and protect lives and property.

The stakeholders agreed to an immediate ceasefire and called for the prosecution of those responsible for the violence.

They also agreed on measures to ensure accountability among community leaders and the rebuilding of the destroyed Idigo Palace.

Soludo said the state government would assist in rebuilding the palace, describing the attack on the traditional institution as an assault on the heritage of the state.

The Judicial Commission of Inquiry was mandated to examine petitions, complaints and historical grievances connected with the crisis and submit its comprehensive report within four months.

During the meeting, community leaders condemned the violence and highlighted the killing of a minor and an unarmed person from Umuoba Anam, as well as the subsequent destruction of the Idigo Palace.

Retired Justice Charles Okaa, who represented the Umueri community as an observer, appealed for restraint and urged the state government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment concerning boundary matters between Umueri and Aguleri.

The stakeholders subsequently renewed their commitment to ending the hostilities and promoting peaceful coexistence among the affected communities.

Soludo said the government would remain firm in enforcing law and order while pursuing a lasting and just resolution to the dispute.