The Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has directed communities involved in the longstanding Amasiri-Edda boundary dispute to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the completion of the ongoing demarcation exercise.
Nwifuru gave the directive on Wednesday after receiving the interim report of the Amasiri-Edda Boundary Adjustment and Demarcation Committee, as part of efforts to end the dispute that has persisted for generations.
The governor also ordered the reinstatement of the traditional rulers of Nukwe and Amasiri, stressing that his administration’s priority was to restore peace rather than favour either of the communities involved in the boundary disagreement.
He said the prolonged dispute had resulted in pain, loss and tension among residents, warning that the conflict must not be allowed to continue undermining peace and development in the state.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Nwifuru said, “Peace remains one of the greatest priorities of our administration.”
He added, “Our interest is not to favour anyone or any community. Our interest is peace – peace that will give us development. Where there is no peace, there is no development.”
The governor consequently directed all parties to respect the existing situation on the ground until the demarcation process is concluded.
He warned against any attempt by individuals or groups to take advantage of the ongoing process to encroach on disputed territory.
“I have therefore directed that the status quo ante bellum be maintained as the demarcation exercise continues. No one should interfere with or trespass on another person’s land,” he said.
Nwifuru further called on the affected communities to support the government’s efforts to achieve a permanent resolution, assuring residents that his administration would continue to pursue peace across the state.
He said, “We are willing to make peace, and we will continue to work for peace across Ebonyi State.”
The latest intervention comes as the state government intensifies efforts to resolve the Amasiri-Edda boundary dispute through a formal adjustment and demarcation process, with the interim report of the committee now before the governor.
The governor’s directive effectively places emphasis on preventing fresh confrontations or unilateral changes to disputed areas while the committee continues its work toward a lasting settlement.
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