Christopher Isiguzo
9 October 2008
Abakaliki — Soldiers have taken over Ezillo and Ezzah-ezillo in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, to restore normalcy.
A major crisis broke out between the people of the two communities, who had hitherto lived together for decades, culminating in the loss of several lives and property worth millions of naira.
Though unconfirmed reports have it that nine persons were arrested on Monday, for allegedly planning to cause problem in the area, THISDAY gathered that following the directive of Governor Martin Elechi to the villagers to turn in their weapons of war procured in the wake of the crisis to the nearest military post, a total of 29 of such weapons have been returned by Ezillo community.
The 90-day dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed by the governor in the area is however, yielding results, as pa1pable peace seemed to be returning, even though the people of Ezza-ezillo, who have been relocated to a virgin land in Egu-echara, are yet to commence movement to their new abode.
Chairman of the Council, Mr Onwa Ali Onwa, in a press briefing at Ezillo, yesterday, said since Elechi on October 2, pronounced the peace strategies, normalcy has returned to the area, adding that the curfew in particular has been religiously observed.
He reminded the people that the curfew is not just for Ezillo and Ezza-ezillo, but for the entire council, and urged other communities in the locality to abide by the curfew.
He further reminded the people of the area of the governor's directive banning firing of any shot, cannon, gun or even knock outs in the area until the expiration of the curfew on December 31.
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