By Gabriel Ameh
The Ebonyi State Government has lifted the curfew imposed on Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area following successful peace engagements with stakeholders and security agencies.
The decision was reached after a high-level meeting involving government officials, community leaders, members of the Separatist Council, and security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Officials, while briefing journalists, confirmed that the curfew has been fully lifted. However, they noted that a limited security presence will remain in the area to maintain stability and prevent a recurrence of violence.
The government also disclosed that individuals linked to the crisis would be identified and apprehended, warning that those found responsible would be declared wanted.
According to authorities, the move to restore normalcy was influenced by appeals from Amasiri stakeholders, including letters expressing remorse and renewed commitments to peace from members of the Okorojo community, as well as endorsements from traditional institutions.
In a related development, the state government reversed its earlier decision to delist the Amasiri Development Centre. The centre has now been fully reinstated, bringing the number of development centres in the state back to 64.
The reversal followed appeals from founding leaders and the Elders Council, who urged the government to act in the interest of unity and fairness.
As part of reintegration efforts, the government also ordered the reopening of public institutions in the area, including schools and healthcare facilities.
The Head of Service, RitaMary Okoro, has been directed to coordinate the redeployment of staff through the relevant ministries and agencies.
Speaking during a joint briefing, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ben Odom, alongside the Commissioner for Information, Ikeuwa Omebe, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and rebuilding affected communities.
They described the current phase as one focused on recovery and stability, assuring residents that efforts would continue until full normalcy is achieved.
The government also commended residents, traditional rulers, and security agencies for their cooperation, emphasizing that sustained peace and development remain top priorities.
