By Princess Idam Omagha joy
A publisher and community advocate, Princess Joy Omagha Idam, has responded strongly to comments by Hon. Chinedu Ogah dismissing allegations of genocide and rights violations in the ongoing Amasiri–Oso Eda communal crisis in Ebonyi State.
In a detailed public statement, Idam accused the Ebonyi State Government under Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of imposing what she described as disproportionate measures on Amasiri community following the land dispute with neighbouring Oso Eda.
Curfew, Deployment and Allegations
According to Idam, the state government imposed a 20-hour curfew on Amasiri on January 31, 2026, alongside the deployment of soldiers to enforce the restriction.
She alleged that schools, hospitals, markets, and commercial activities were shut down, while government workers were redeployed from the community.
The statement further claimed that the prolonged security presence has led to civilian casualties, displacement, economic hardship, and restricted access to medical care. Idam described Amasiri as “largely deserted,” alleging that more than 20 persons have died within a month, though these figures have not been independently verified.
She argued that describing the situation as “baseless” or “spurious,” as reportedly stated by Hon. Ogah, fails to acknowledge the experiences of affected residents.
Call for Transparency
Idam questioned whether investigative panels set up in response to the crisis had made their findings public and called for greater transparency.
She asked why punitive measures were allegedly imposed only on Amasiri and whether similar actions were taken against Oso Eda.
While acknowledging the recent relaxation of the curfew, she maintained that further steps are necessary, including the full reopening of schools, hospitals, and markets, as well as an independent and dispassionate investigation into the crisis.
Demands by Amasiri Stakeholders
The statement outlined several demands, including:
An independent investigation into the crisis
Public accountability for alleged abuses
Fair and transparent conflict resolution
Restoration of destroyed properties
Guarantees against disproportionate use of force
Immediate demarcation of disputed boundary areas
Idam also urged the involvement of civil society organisations, human rights bodies, and the National Boundary Commission to clarify records relating to the disputed land.
Historical Comparison
In her remarks, Idam referenced past communal clashes during the administration of former Governor Dave Umahi, arguing that similar security measures were not imposed in previous boundary disputes.
She concluded by stating that the people of Amasiri are seeking justice, equity, and restoration rather than political confrontation.
