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In a bid to bring solace and closure to the Ogwuaniocha community, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has approved a sum of N15 million for the mass burial of 43 community members who lost their lives in a crisis that ravaged the area in November 2021. This gesture comes as part of the state government’s efforts to foster peace and development in the community.

Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Barr Anthony Ifeanya, presented the cheque to the President General of Ogwuaniocha Progressive Association, Vitalis Ekweanua, in the presence of other community stakeholders. Ifeanya commended the community for their efforts towards peace and announced Governor Soludo’s intention to visit the community with developmental projects. He assured that the Ogwuaniocha community would receive all due benefits as a host community under the current administration.

Despite this supportive move, the community remains deserted, with President General Ekweanua expressing that the N15 million, while welcome, falls short of addressing the community’s deeper needs. The community is seeking more substantial government investment in infrastructural development. Ekweanua painted a dire picture of the community’s current state, highlighting that schools, houses, and healthcare facilities have been destroyed, leaving the residents in a state of despair.

The crisis, which began in November 2021, has had a devastating impact on Ogwuaniocha. Ekweanua shared that about 90% of the houses, including his own, were destroyed beyond repair. The community’s children are no longer attending school due to the destruction of educational facilities. Furthermore, the presence of an oil-drilling company in the area has halted farming and fishing activities due to oil spills, with no compensation provided to the affected residents.

The community also faces the challenge of a missing traditional ruler, who was kidnapped during the crisis under the previous administration. Ekweanua appealed to Governor Soludo to extend his developmental agenda to their community, specifically requesting the reconstruction of affected facilities and the construction of a bridge at Ulasi River to link Umunankwo to Ihiala Local Government Area. This, they believe, would be a significant step towards restoring the community’s former glory and alleviating the suffering of its residents.

As the Ogwuaniocha community continues to grapple with the aftermath of the crisis, the intervention by Governor Soludo and the call for further developmental support underscore the complex challenges faced by many communities in Nigeria. The situation in Ogwuaniocha serves as a reminder of the need for comprehensive solutions that address not only immediate needs but also the long-term development and well-being of affected communities. With patience, perseverance, and the right support, there is hope for the Ogwuaniocha community to heal and flourish once again.