The Abia State Government has received the report of the seven-member administrative panel of enquiry set up to investigate the crisis in Okon Aku community in Ohafia Local Government Area, with assurances that a White Paper will be issued after due consideration.
The panel, inaugurated on 12 January 2026, was constituted following a violent outbreak in the community that resulted in the loss of life and disruption of public order.
Receiving the report on Tuesday, at the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) Secretariat in Umuahia, Governor Alex Otti assured that the document would undergo a thorough and meticulous review before issuing a White Paper in that regard.
Governor Otti represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, stated that the report would be processed through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and expressed confidence that its implementation would restore lasting peace in the area.
“The report will be carefully reviewed and the White Paper that will follow shall form the basis for implementation.
“These are established administrative procedures and I am confident that the outcome will bring lasting peace to Okon Aku once the recommendations are fully implemented”, Governor Otti said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the panel, retired Justice Kenneth Wosu, disclosed that the committee received 52 memoranda from individuals and groups after extensive public sensitization.
He said the panel conducted public sittings between 28 January and 10 March 2026, and held 27 sessions during which 56 exhibits including documentary and electronic evidence were admitted.
Wosu, further noted that the panel carried out an on-the-spot assessment of the community and summoned key stakeholders to clarify issues and respond to allegations.
According to him, the investigation traced the crisis to multiple underlying factors, including disputes over the management of the Erei Farm Settlement, succession tussles involving the Ezogo and Nnaka traditional stools and a long-standing rivalry between the Ndi Uma and Ndi Owo kindreds over traditional authority.
He added that the removal of the President of the Okon Aku Development Union (ODU), alongside allegations of external interference in traditional matters also contributed to the tensions.
The panel identified the immediate trigger of the crisis as the murder of a former youth leader, which escalated into widespread violence, including arson and clashes that led to a breakdown of law and order.
Wosu noted that some issues uncovered during the inquiry remain sub judice, while law enforcement agencies are continuing investigations into criminal aspects of the crisis.
The panel recommended the immediate establishment of an all-inclusive Okon Aku Community Peace Committee, government takeover of the Erei Farm Settlement and the thorough investigation and prosecution of individuals implicated in criminal acts.
He expressed confidence that the implementation of these recommendations would pave the way for lasting peace, justice and communal harmony in the area.
Wosu on behalf of the panel, commended Governor Otti for the opportunity to serve and lauded his administration’s commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state.
He also appreciated the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Permanent Secretary, Lady Oge Maduka, and security agencies for their support.
The report, presented in four volumes containing detailed proceedings and compiled exhibits, is expected to provide a comprehensive framework for resolving the crisis.
