The Progressive Peoples’ Alliance (PPA), Anambra State chapter, on Saturday called for the conduct of local government election in the state to allow for democratically elected representatives at the grassroots

Emeke, who led a delegation of the party chieftain to the burial of Mr. Chigozie Okafor, who was allegedly killed in the communal clash between Abagana in Njikoka Local Council and Ukpo in Dunukofia Local Council, said democratically elected representatives at the local government level would help resolve some differences among various communities, rather than relying on court rulings.

Emeka said conduct of local government council election is the panacea for solving so many problems in the rural areas.

While praising Okafor’s dedication to the party ideals, Emeka said the deceased was a member of the vigilance group in the area.

He was also chairman of the party in the area and described as a peaceful, progressive young man who had the desire to make a mark in politics.

He, however, advised community leaders to come together and resolve their differences without the interference of government institution that often is not aware of the root of the issue on the ground.

Also speaking, PPA leader in the state, Mr. Godwin Ezeemo, expressed sympathy to Okafor’s widow and parents, calling on Anambra state government to urgently swing into action through its boundary committee to settle all land disputes among communities to avoid preventable death occasioned by communal clashes.

He cautioned youths to avoid being used by anyone or group of persons for selfish reasons and shun being engaged in areas that will bring permanent sorrow to their loved ones.

Wife of the deceased, Onyinyechukwu her described her husband as a hardworking man.

The father of the deceased, Chief Joseph Okafor, said the late Chigozie was his first child and bread winner of the family of five and appealed to government to come to the aid of the community by resolving the communal dispute and compensating the family.

One of the relatives and a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr. John Olibe, thanked PPA chieftains for identifying with their member even in death and called for the rule of law to take its cause on the matter that led to the death of the vibrant young man.

The Chairman of Akpu Youth in Ukpo, Mr. Chijioke Ozumba, who led other youths to the burial ceremony, said the deceased was one of their executives and peace loving youth who derived joy in assisting others. (Independent)

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