By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Residents of the two warring communities in Anambra State have started returning to their homes in droves following the restoration of peace in the areas.

It was gathered that the restoration of peace in the area was an offshoot of a joint meeting by the State Government Joint Security Forces, Vigilante groups, traditional rulers, Youth leaders and Ayamelum leaders of thought.

News Express reports that the two agrarian communities, Umumbo and Omor, both in Ayamelum Local Government Area of the state, had on May 5, 2020 engaged in a fiasco over a lingering land issue.

The fight subsequently led to the loss of one life, abduction of about fifty persons and the destruction of properties worth millions of naira, with residents fleeing to neighbouring communities for safety.

Confirming the return of peace in the area in a statement made available to journalists in Awka, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Haruna Mohammed, said: “Following the restoration of peace in the affected communities through the efforts of the Anambra State Government, Joint Security Forces, Vigilante groups, traditional rulers, Youth leaders and Ayamelum leaders of thought, the residents have finally returned back to their respective homes and normalcy restored.

“Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. John B. Abang, has assured that the situation is being monitored closely and further peace initiatives are still ongoing to restore permanent peace in the affected areas.

“Consequently, the Commissioner thanked Governor Willie Obiano; the Speaker Anambra State House of Assembly, Uche Okafor, traditional rulers and all the stakeholders whose efforts helped immensely in restoring peace in the area and prevented the crisis from escalating,

“The CP further enjoined the citizens to eschew violence and always explore the legal avenues towards addressing their grievances in order to avert breakdown of law and order adding that the Police is committed towards enhancing safety and security for all Ndi Anambra and residents alike in the state.”