Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has released more than ₦580 million in compensation to victims of the recent violent communal clash in Nkalaha community, Ishielu Local Government Area.
Compensation Ceremony Held in Ezillo
The disbursement was officially launched on Thursday at the Ishielu council headquarters in Ezillo. The presentation was made on the governor’s behalf by his deputy, Princess Patricia Onyemaechi Obila, with community leaders, security chiefs, and residents in attendance.
Chairman Commends Swift Action
The chairman of Ishielu LGA, Mrs Peace Ifeoma Agwu, hailed the gesture as historic, crediting the governor’s intervention for restoring calm to the once-troubled area.
Breakdown of Compensation
According to HRH Eze Thompson Ebeh, the traditional ruler of Nkalaha Autonomous Community:
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18 residents received ₦22 million each.
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41 building owners got ₦4 million each.
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4 motorcycle owners shared ₦4 million.
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20 SMEs received ₦20 million collectively.
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₦850,000 was paid for recorded cash losses.
Cause of the Conflict
Ebeh linked the violence to reprisals following the killing of a cow in Amegu land, adding that unidentified gunmen carried out the attack.
Security Agencies Step In
He confirmed that the DSS and other security agencies facilitated peace agreements to prevent future bloodshed, stressing that dialogue was the only viable solution.
Ezillo Monarch Praises Government
HRH Eze Innocent Okafor of Ezillo Autonomous Community applauded the swift government response, emphasizing that resolving the Fulani herdsmen crisis requires state leadership alongside traditional authorities.
Broader Impact of Farmer-Herder Clashes
Stakeholders noted that the Nkalaha attack mirrors similar farmer-herder conflicts across Nigeria, often leaving casualties, destroyed property, and displaced residents.
Confidence in Sustained Peace Efforts
They expressed optimism that the state government will continue peace initiatives through dialogue, community engagement, and targeted victim support.