The governments of Anambra and Abia states have promised to resolve their ongoing boundary disputes peacefully. They made this commitment during a meeting in Awka that included officials from both states, the National Boundary Commission (NBC), traditional rulers, and other stakeholders.
Onyeka Ibezim, Anambra's Deputy Governor and head of the state's Boundary Committee, emphasized the government’s dedication to resolving the disputes legally. Ekenechukwu Okoye, who is the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Charles Soludo on boundary issues, represented him at the meeting.
Mr Ibezim said that the state is focused on using dialogue and following established procedures. He pointed out that mismanaging boundary disputes can greatly affect the lives and livelihoods of the people involved. Therefore, sincerity, fairness, and professionalism are essential for a lasting solution.
While there are still differing views among stakeholders, the deputy governor is hopeful that the outstanding issues will soon be resolved. He expressed confidence in the review process being led by the NBC.
“Inside every committee, there will naturally be dissenting opinions, both for and against. It is the responsibility of the commission and the relevant technical teams to review all submissions,” he said.
He added that the commission sets the principles and timelines for resolution. “However, we are hopeful that, within their budgetary provisions and other ancillary considerations, the matter will be resolved, possibly within this administration.”
Remarks by NBC DG
Earlier, Adamu Adaji, the Director-General of the NBC, praised both governments for maintaining peaceful discussions over the years. He shared that of the 23-kilometre boundary between the states, about 15 kilometres have been jointly traced and marked. Work is ongoing to resolve the remaining 8 kilometres.
He reiterated the commission’s commitment to providing the necessary technical and institutional support to finish this task according to historical records, legal documents, and set procedures.
Chijioke Nwankwo, who represents the Abia State Government as the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Deputy Governor, called the meeting a chance to strengthen peace between the two states. He praised the NBC for keeping the dialogue going and commended both governments for their commitment to peace during the negotiations.
“As neighbours, we may be separated by administrative boundaries, but we share the same ancestry, culture, and common aspirations,” he said. “The monuments we erect should become symbols of peace, not division.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting involved detailed discussions on reports from the Joint Technical Committee and mediation sessions among stakeholders. They also reviewed recommendations to resolve the remaining eight-kilometre stretch of the interstate boundary.
The officials endorsed and signed a communiqué that reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue, peaceful living together, and speeding up the completion of the delineation work.
Both governments and the NBC assured the team of their continued collaboration to achieve a fair and lasting resolution.
The Traditional Ruler of Ufuma, Peter Ezeamama, called for more involvement from community leaders in resolving boundary disputes before government action is needed.
“We should allow community leaders to handle the boundary issues first. If they fail, then the government can step in,” the monarch said.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇