In a groundbreaking step towards healing and rebuilding, the Eziagulu Otu Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities have successfully performed the IKONME ritual, a traditional reconciliation ceremony, marking the end of a month-long crisis that resulted in loss of lives and property ¹.
The ceremony, held at the Otuocha Local Government Secretariat, brought together members and stakeholders from both communities, promoting peace and saving lives as they navigate the path to reconciliation. The Mayor of Anambra East, Hon Ifeanyi Chinweze, and Aguleri President General Barr Rolex Ifeanyi Iloakasia collaborated to constitute and sponsor the committee that facilitated the reconciliation.
The crisis erupted over a dispute regarding the ownership of a natural fish pond area within the farm land. Traditional rulers from Anambra East communities established a committee to investigate and resolve the boundary dispute once and for all.
The successful performance of the IKONME ritual demonstrates the commitment of both communities to finding peace and moving forward. As they work towards reconciliation, the communities acknowledge the importance of preserving lives and promoting harmony. The Anambra State Boundary Committee has also intervened to resolve the boundary dispute between Umuoba Anam and Eziagulu-Otu Aguleri.