The ceremony, attended by top government officials, security agencies, religious leaders, and community stakeholders, was a poignant reminder of the pain and loss caused by the crisis, as well as a renewed commitment to ensuring such violence never recurs.
The event began with an opening remark by *Dr. Ben Uruchi Odoh, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ebonyi State. In his address, Dr. Odoh described the occasion as a “momentous day” that signifies a new beginning for the people of Ebonyi State, particularly those affected by the Effium and Ezza Effium crisis.
“Today, we gather not only to witness the granting of amnesty to 159 detainees but to reaffirm our collective commitment to peace, justice, and reconciliation,” Dr. Odoh stated. He praised Governor Nwifuru’s decision to extend amnesty, describing it as a testament to the government’s unwavering resolve to foster healing and unity.
“As the Chief Law Officer of the state, I recognize the delicate balance between justice and mercy. Today’s event is a demonstration of justice tempered with compassion. It reflects our administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law while creating avenues for reintegration and rehabilitation,” he added.
Dr. Odoh urged the beneficiaries of the amnesty to seize the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities. “This is not merely a release—it is an opportunity, a second chance to embrace peace, abandon violence, and embrace progress,” he emphasized.
He also commended the efforts of the Peace Committee, security agencies, and all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to make the event possible. “Your dedication reinforces our collective responsibility to ensure that the mistakes of the past do not define our future,” he said.
Following the Attorney General’s remarks, Governor Nwifuru delivered his keynote address, describing the amnesty as a “strategic step toward achieving lasting peace and stability” in Effium, Ezza Effium, and across Ebonyi State. He emphasized that the decision was not made lightly but was rooted in the principles of justice tempered with mercy.
“The crisis between Effium and Ezza Effium has been a dark chapter in our history—a chapter that has caused pain, loss, and division,” the governor stated. “Today, we are determined to close this chapter, not with bitterness, but with compassion, justice, and a firm commitment to lasting peace.”
The governor revealed that the amnesty was based on the recommendations of a Seven-Man Peace Committee led by the revered Catholic Bishop Emeritus of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael N. Okoro (Rtd). The committee’s report, which formed the basis of the government’s White Paper on the crisis, called for a structured framework for disarmament, rehabilitation, and reintegration of those affected by the conflict.
Governor Nwifuru outlined key measures to ensure sustainable peace, including the demarcation of Effium land into two parts, the acquisition of Effium Market for public interest, and the protection of the Effium Forest Reserve. He also urged the released detainees to seize the opportunity to turn a new leaf and contribute positively to their communities.
The event featured goodwill messages from key stakeholders, each echoing the need for unity and collective responsibility in building a peaceful Ebonyi State.
The Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, CP Anthonia A. Uche-Anya FDC, praised Governor Nwifuru for the amnesty initiative and charged the beneficiaries to be law-abiding citizens. “This is a second chance for you to reintegrate into society. Do not take it for granted,” she admonished.
The Controller of Corrections, Nigerian Correctional Service, Ebonyi State Command, Offem Bessie Benedict, commended the governor for the amnesty but highlighted the challenges of overcrowding in custodial centres. She appealed to the government to expand correctional facilities to address the issue.
*Former Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Ominyi Sam Egwu,* delivered an emotional message, lamenting that the crisis could have been averted but for the greed of a few individuals. He charged the people of Effium and Ezza Effium to resist being induced into violence in the future. “Let this amnesty be a turning point for peace and progress in our communities,” he urged.
The highlight of the event was the emotional responses from some of the released detainees, who expressed profound gratitude to the Ebonyi State Government for granting them a second chance. Many of them shared their experiences and pledged to contribute to peace-building efforts in their communities.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Onwosi Ifeanyi, who had been detained for over two years, fought back tears as he addressed the gathering. “I never thought this day would come. I am grateful to His Excellency, Governor Nwifuru, for this act of mercy. I promise to live a life of peace and to encourage others to do the same,” he said.
Another detainee, Mr. Akam Sunday from Ezza expressed his relief at being reunited with his family. “This amnesty is a miracle for me and my children. I have learned my lesson, and I will never allow myself to be involved in anything that disrupts the peace of our community again,” he vowed.
Mr. Chinedu Sunday, from Effium acknowledged the pain caused by the crisis and called for collective healing. “We have all suffered, but today is a new beginning. I urge my brothers and sisters to embrace peace and work together to rebuild our communities,” he said.
The granting of amnesty to the 159 detainees is not just a symbolic gesture but a concrete step toward addressing the root causes of the Effium and Ezza Effium crisis. The Ebonyi State Government has demonstrated its commitment to peace by investing in education, skill acquisition, and infrastructure development in the affected communities.
As the state moves forward, the onus lies on all stakeholders, community leaders, religious institutions, security agencies, and the people themselves to uphold the values of peace, justice, and progress.
In his closing remarks, Governor Nwifuru expressed gratitude to the Peace Committee, security agencies, and all those who contributed to the success of the initiative. “Let us move forward with courage, unity, and a renewed commitment to the values that define us as a people: peace, justice, and progress,” he declared.
The event ended on a hopeful note, with the released detainees embracing their second chance and the people of Ebonyi State reaffirming their commitment to building a future free from violence and division.
I am Igwe Eze Chikodiri, PRO, Ebonyi State Ministry of Justice, & Research Assistant to Hon. Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Ebonyi State.
Post a Comment