Soludo calls for peace after deadly clash between communities

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has ordered an end to the fighting between Amaeze Aguleri and Umuoba Anam in Anambra East Local Government Area. The governor's order came after violent clashes broke out in these communities, as stated by his spokesperson, Christian Aburime, on Saturday.

Reports say at least five people have died. Many houses were burned down and many lives were affected by the violence. The Anambra State Government has also ordered the Otuocha Market to close due to the crisis.

In the statement, Mr Soludo said he felt “deep sadness” over the deaths and injuries that happened during the clashes. He said that violence and destruction have no place in Anambra State.

“To tackle the root causes of this long-standing issue and find a lasting solution, Governor Soludo has called for an emergency meeting on peace and security. This meeting will include key leaders from the affected communities and will take place on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, at the Light House.

While waiting for the meeting, the Governor has told both communities to stop all fighting, keep the peace, and show restraint,” the statement said. It added that any complaints or issues must go through the designated leaders at the meeting in the Government House in Awka.

“Additionally, security forces, including the police, have been deployed to ensure safety, maintain order, and prevent any further violence,” the statement explained. Mr Soludo assured Anambra residents that his government is focused on protecting lives and properties and resolving community disputes peacefully.

The dispute between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam has gone on for decades. It is mainly about land and boundaries, with both communities claiming ownership of land near the Anambra River.

The Anambra State Government has labeled this issue as a boundary dispute. In 2025, it was sent to the State Boundary Committee for resolution. Reports indicate that this dispute tends to come back after the state government intervenes.

For example, in March 2015, a clash between the two communities resulted in at least one death and several houses destroyed. After government intervention, the fighting stopped but returned ten years later in 2025.

During this time, traditional rulers from both communities have shared different stories about how the disagreement started, with each claiming ownership of the disputed land. The recent violence is also linked to this long-standing land dispute.