Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has approved the sum of N15 million to support the mass burial of 43 individuals who lost their lives during a communal crisis in Ogwuaniocha, Ogbaru Local Government Area, in 2021.
The crisis, which erupted following the discovery of oil in the community, escalated into violent clashes among factions vying for control of the anticipated oil wealth.
The unrest also led to the abduction of the traditional ruler, Igwe Oliver Nnaji, whose whereabouts remain unknown nearly four years later.
Presenting the cheque on behalf of the governor on Saturday, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Mr. Anthony Ifeanya, commended the community for embracing peace after years of unrest.
The presentation took place at the commissioner’s office in Awka, where community elders and stakeholders were also in attendance.
“The governor has demonstrated genuine concern and support for Ogwuaniocha. His administration is committed to bringing development to the community,” Ifeanya said. “Governor Soludo intends to visit the area with more projects, and as a host community, you will receive everything you are entitled to under this government.”
Receiving the cheque, the President-General of Ogwuaniocha Progressives Association, Mr. Vitalis Ekweanua, expressed appreciation to the governor, revealing that the community had already conducted a mass burial for the victims on April 20, 2025, as part of efforts to heal and restore peace.
“The N15 million assistance is a significant relief to us,” Ekweanua stated. “But beyond that, we are appealing for urgent intervention in rebuilding our lives and community.”
He lamented the severe impact of the crisis, including the destruction of homes, schools, and healthcare facilities. “Our children have stopped going to school. Almost all the houses, including mine, were destroyed. We are still living in fear and pain,” he added.
Ekweanua also raised concerns about the operations of an oil firm in the area, accusing it of environmental degradation. “Since they began drilling, we’ve been unable to farm or fish due to oil spills. And up till now, we haven’t received any form of compensation,” he said.
He further appealed to the governor to construct a bridge over the Ulasi River to connect Umunankwo and Ihiala Local Government Areas, a project he believes would ease movement and foster development in the region.
“Governor Soludo is a blessing to Anambra, and we will repay him with our full support in the November 8, 2025, governorship election,” he assured.
Others present at the event included Owelle Nnaji, representative of the missing traditional ruler; Mrs. Appolonia Ezenwa, Women Leader; and Uchenna Onyedi, Youth President of the community.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to security, justice, and rebuilding. “This is only the beginning. More government attention is coming to Ogwuaniocha,” he concluded.
