*** As the Ministry Donates N2.5 million worth of food items and clothing to three affected communities
The President of The Evangelizers Team Ministry International, TETMI, Rev. Dr. David Umune, has written an open letter to the Governor of Ebonyi State, Chief Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, expressing deep concern over the escalating communal clashes in various parts of the state.
These clashes have resulted in loss of lives, displacement of families, and a general atmosphere of insecurity. Dr. Umune, as a stakeholder in the Ebonyi Project, has urged the Governor to take immediate action to restore peace and prevent further escalation.
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The communal clashes, often rooted in longstanding ethnic and land disputes, have intensified in recent times, leading to fatalities and widespread fear among the populace
The 2011 clashes between the Ezza and Ezilo peoples, which resulted in at least 50 deaths, serve as a grim reminder of the potential consequences of unresolved communal tensions in the state. Dr. Umune believes that decisive action is needed to prevent a repeat of such tragic events.
To address the situation, Dr. Umune has proposed the establishment of a State-Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee. This committee would comprise representatives from all affected communities, religious leaders, youth organizations, and civil society groups.
Its primary objective would be to serve as a platform for dialogue, conflict resolution, and the promotion of mutual understanding among the various communities.
Furthermore, Dr. Umune has called on the Governor to issue a strong statement condemning the violence and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities by all parties involved.
He also recommends initiating a high-level peacebuilding process that brings together leaders, elders, and representatives of the affected communities for dialogue and mediation. This process would help to address the underlying issues driving the conflicts and work towards finding lasting solutions.
In addition to these measures, Dr. Umune has suggested that the state government should strengthen the presence of security agencies in volatile areas to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all citizens. The implementation of already made decisions, resolutions, and judgments by relevant authorities and bodies would also help to build trust and confidence in the government’s ability to address the situation.
Dr. Umune has also proposed launching state-wide public awareness campaigns to educate the populace on the dangers of ethnic intolerance and the importance of peaceful coexistence. By promoting a culture of peace and understanding, the state can work towards preventing future conflicts and building a more harmonious society.
The TETMI President has assured the Governor that the people of Ebonyi State look to his leadership to guide them through this challenging period. By taking decisive and inclusive actions, the state can pave the way for lasting peace and unity.
Dr. Umune remains hopeful that under the Governor’s stewardship, Ebonyi State will overcome these challenges and emerge stronger.
“The appeal highlights the need for urgent action to address the communal clashes and promote peace and stability in Ebonyi State.
It is expected that the state government will take the proposed measures into consideration and work towards finding lasting solutions to the conflicts
“The Ministry (TETMI) donated food items worth N2.5 million to three communities affected by communal clashes in the state. Each community received an equal share of the donated items, which included food and clothing”
“The communities affected were likely those involved in the clashes between Ndieguzu Agalegu Omege and Ukwuinyima, as well as Umuobor-Akaeze and Ogwor-Ishiagu, in the Ikwo and Ivo Local Government Areas, respectively.
”The clashes, which led to loss of lives and destruction of properties, were reportedly sparked by longstanding disputes over land and other issues. In one incident, a fight between two youths from different communities resulted in one death and the burning of over 10 houses.
”The police intervened, arresting the suspect and maintaining order in the area”he said.
