The Obingwa Local Government Area has inaugurated a Mediation and Peace Panel Committee to help resolve disputes and promote peace at the grassroots level. The initiative is aimed at reducing conflict in communities and encouraging dialogue as a better alternative to violence and prolonged court cases.
The committee was approved by the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, and established through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. It forms part of the state government’s wider strategy to strengthen peacebuilding, social harmony, and effective local governance across Abia State.
The committee was officially inaugurated by the Executive Chairman of Obingwa LGA, Hon. Maxwell C. Nwadike, who described the panel as a timely intervention to address rising disputes at the community level. He noted that peaceful resolution of conflicts is essential for development and unity in Obingwa communities.
The Mediation and Peace Panel will serve as an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) body within the local government. It is made up of experienced professionals and respected community leaders drawn from different sectors, ensuring fairness, balance, and credibility in its operations. Members of the panel include:
Mr. Innocent Isikaku Chairman;
Amb. E. L. O. Amalaha Secretary;
Barr. Eze Emerole Legal Counsel;
Elder Chris Okeorji Complaint Unit Officer;
Barr. Enyinnaya Nwaubani Administrative Officer;
HRH Eze C. Nwokenne Traditional Ruler;
HRH Eze (Engr.) V. A. Nwobia Traditional Ruler.
The committee is mandated to handle a wide range of disputes, including family and domestic matters, land and boundary issues, community disagreements such as kingship stool matters, landlord and tenant disputes, as well as minor commercial and interpersonal conflicts. Its goal is to ensure that disputes are resolved quickly and fairly without unnecessary tension.
All cases brought before the panel will be treated with strict confidentiality. The services of the committee will be free of charge, and emphasis will be placed on dialogue, understanding, and mutual agreement between parties.
The panel’s tenure takes immediate effect and will run for one year, subject to review and possible renewal based on performance. It will sit twice weekly at the Obingwa Local Government Headquarters and will receive full administrative and logistical support from the government to enable it function effectively.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Hon. Nwadike expressed strong confidence in the ability of the committee members to deliver on their mandate. He urged residents of Obingwa to take advantage of the panel and embrace peaceful dialogue as the best way to resolve disputes and maintain lasting peace in their communities.
