The seven-man administrative panel of inquiry instituted by the Abia State Government to investigate the crisis in Okon Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area of the state, has formally submitted its report.
The panel was set up to investigate the killing of an Okon Aku community youth leader, Igwe Akuma, the burning of people’s houses, and the root causes of the crisis in the community.
Receiving the report on Tuesday in Umuahia, Abia State Governor Alex Otti assured that the government would meticulously study the document through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government before issuing a White Paper on its implementation to ensure lasting peace.
Governor Otti, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, received the administrative panel’s report on behalf of the state government.
Presenting the report earlier, the Chairman of the panel, retired Justice Kenneth Wosu, disclosed that the panel received a total of 52 memoranda from individuals and groups following extensive public sensitisation.
He noted that public sittings were held between January 28 and March 10, 2026, spanning 27 sessions, during which 56 exhibits, including documentary and electronic evidence, were admitted.
Retired Justice Wosu further stated that the panel undertook an on-the-spot assessment visit to Okon Aku community and conducted in-depth deliberations, including summoning key individuals to clarify issues and respond to allegations.
He said the findings showed that the crisis was traced to several remote causes, including disputes over the management of the Erei Farm Settlement and succession tussles surrounding the Ezogo and Nnaka traditional stools.
He also listed the longstanding rivalry between the Ndi Uma and Ndi Owo kindreds over traditional authority, the removal of the President of the Okon Aku Development Union (ODU), and allegations of external interference in traditional matters as contributing factors.
Additionally, the panel chairman identified the immediate trigger of the crisis as the murder of a former youth leader, which escalated tensions and led to a widespread breakdown of law and order, including arson and violent confrontations.
The panel recommended the immediate establishment of an all-inclusive Okon Aku Community Peace Committee, government takeover of the Erei Farm Settlement, and a thorough investigation and prosecution of individuals implicated in criminal acts.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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