Dr. Alex Otti has approved a high-powered panel to probe the Okon Aku crisis in Ohafia. See the full terms of reference and what the panel will investigate — read more.
The Abia State Government has taken decisive steps to restore peace and justice in Okon Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area, following the violent crisis that rocked the area and reportedly led to the loss of life.
In a move widely seen as a show of seriousness and accountability, the state government has inaugurated a 7-man Administrative Panel of Enquiry to investigate the crisis, unravel its root causes and recommend lasting solutions. The panel is chaired by Hon. Justice Kenneth O. Wosu (Rtd.), a respected retired High Court judge.
The panel was formally inaugurated on Tuesday at the JAAC Secretariat, Umuahia by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, who stated that the administration of Governor Alex Otti would not ignore any incident that threatens peace and communal harmony.
According to Prince Nwachukwu, the decision to set up the panel followed disturbing reports and images showing the severity of the Okon Aku crisis, which threw the community into fear, grief, and instability.
“We are all aware that a couple of days back, there erupted a very serious community crisis in Okon Aku, Ohafia, leading to loss of life. The government, in its wisdom under His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, has directed that this panel be set up to determine the remote and immediate causes of that conflict,” he said.
What the Panel Will Investigate
The panel has been handed sweeping powers and clear Terms of Reference, including:
-Investigating the remote and immediate causes of the Okon Aku crisis
-Identifying individuals, groups, or institutions involved in escalating the conflict
-Examining the role of traditional rulers, youth groups, and community leadership
-Reviewing the administrative, socio-economic, cultural, and security dimensions of the crisis
-Recommending sanctions against anyone found culpable
-Proposing measures for lasting peace, justice, and communal harmony
-Making any other recommendations necessary in the interest of public peace and order
The panel has 30 days to conclude its work and submit a report to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Full List of Panel Members
Hon. Justice Kenneth O. Wosu (Rtd.) – Chairman
Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd.) – Member
Barr. Obinna Chimbuo – Member
HRM Eze Kalu Ogbu – Member
HRM Eze Franklin Nwosu – Member
Mr. Ahunaya George, Head of Service, Ohafia LGA – Member
Mrs. Charity Okeagu, Director, Chieftaincy Affairs – Secretary
Panel Assures Abians of Justice
Speaking on behalf of the panel, Justice Wosu thanked Governor Alex Otti for the confidence reposed in them, promising a thorough and impartial investigation.
“Peace and progress are like twin brothers — you cannot have one without the other. That is why His Excellency has not undermined this crisis. We assure Abians that we will discharge our mandate with integrity and diligence,” he said.
The inauguration was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Lady Oge Maduka, alongside senior management staff.
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