The National Emergency Management Agency has reported that at least 10 people were killed or declared missing, while about 2,000 others were displaced following a communal clash between Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The agency also disclosed that approximately 150 houses were destroyed during the violence, which occurred in October.
The Head of Operations at NEMA’s Enugu Zonal Office, Priscilla Madukwe, revealed the figures during an assessment visit to the affected communities on Saturday.
Madukwe said the visit was organised to determine the extent of the destruction and identify the needs of residents affected by the crisis.
She said, “No fewer than 150 houses were destroyed during the communal clash that occurred in Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in October.
“Similarly, about 2,000 persons were displaced, while 10 persons were either killed or declared missing during the crisis in the affected areas.”
According to her, the Federal Government, through NEMA, would receive the findings of the assessment to determine possible assistance for the victims.
“The level of damage is unfortunate. Our findings will be submitted to the Federal Government for possible assistance to the victims to enable them to return to their homes,” she added.
The violence reportedly resulted in the destruction of residential buildings, shops, factories, vehicles and other property. The palace of a traditional ruler was also reportedly burnt during the confrontation.
More than a month after the incident, the affected communities were said to remain largely deserted, with security personnel deployed to maintain order.
Madukwe urged community leaders and other stakeholders to intensify efforts towards resolving the dispute and preventing further violence.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Anambra East Local Government Area, Ifeanyi Chinweze, appealed to residents to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
He said the local government was working towards resolving the disagreements that triggered the crisis, adding that the curfew imposed on the area had helped restore calm.
Meanwhile, the Head of Administration of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, Ndidi Omega, disclosed that the state government had established a committee to investigate the crisis.
Omega said the committee would recommend measures to prevent a recurrence and identify possible support for those affected by the violence.
