Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has granted amnesty to 51 individuals affected by the Ekoli-Edda crisis.
It will be recalled that the crisis erupted in 2021 between the people of Ekoli Edda in Ebonyi State and their neighbouring communities of Egbor and Urugbam in Cross River State over a palm plantation.
A statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr Monday Uzor, disclosed that the Ebonyi State Government, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, took this measure to find a lasting solution to the crisis, which had claimed many lives and destroyed property.
According to Governor Nwifuru, the disarmament programme initiated by the Nigerian Army, in partnership with his government, was a turning point, as it demonstrated the willingness of the Ekoli Edda vigilante members to lay down their arms and embrace peace. He revealed that they had voluntarily surrendered eight mortar bombs, 29 AK-47 rifles, and 21 pump-action guns, describing this as a powerful act of faith in the possibility of a better future.
The governor further stated that the beneficiaries underwent a six-week skills acquisition programme and were each given N2 million to establish themselves. He also promised that those who performed well would receive an additional tranche of support.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding, GOC 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General Oluremi Olatoye, who was represented by the Commander of the 44 Engineering Brigade, Brigadier General O. D. Bello, informed the Governor that each of the beneficiaries had acquired relevant skills that would help them become self-reliant in their chosen fields.
The GOC urged the beneficiaries of the amnesty and empowerment programme to embrace their training with an open mind, as it marked a new chapter in their lives. He also commended the Ebonyi State Government for its commitment to fostering peace, security, and sustainable development.
The beneficiaries were trained in various fields, including carpentry, electrical and solar installation, fishery and poultry farming, paint production and painting, as well as plumbing and tiling.
