Emetu Urges Peace, Unity at Owaza Clan Reconciliation Meeting

Emetu Urges Peace, Unity at Owaza Clan Reconciliation Meeting

The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has called on the people of Owaza Clan in Ukwa West Local Government Area to embrace peace, unity, and transparency in the management of their oil and gas resources.

Engr. Emetu made the appeal during a reconciliation meeting involving the four Owaza autonomous communities — Ipu West, Etitioha, Isietitioha, and Igirukwu held at the Government House, Umuahia.

He explained that the essence of the meeting was to rekindle the spirit of brotherhood among the people rather than to dispute over figures or percentages, emphasizing that no amount of mineral wealth could outweigh the value of peace and unity.

The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the commitment of the Abia State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, to promoting peace, justice, and equity across communities.

He recalled that disagreements over the sharing of the 3% Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) funds for 2022, 2023, and 2024 had generated tension within the clan. He cautioned that resources meant for development should never be allowed to cause division.

Engr Emetu reminded stakeholders of the 2016 resolution approved by former Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, which established a sharing formula of 20:20:30:30 among the four communities, based on production volume and infrastructural presence.

While condemning attempts by some individuals to exploit the situation for personal gain, he stressed that truth and fairness must prevail.

“No one prospers in a land where peace is broken, and no development thrives in the soil of bitterness,” Engr. Emetu stated.

He further assured that the state government would enforce the provisions of the White Paper and existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with TotalEnergies and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to sustain peace and ensure equitable distribution of benefits.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Gas, Prof. Ogbonna Joel, and his Environment counterpart, Mr. Philemon Ogbonna, urged the Owaza people to remain focused on development and harness their natural resources for collective progress. They encouraged the communities to accept the agreement in good faith and work together for lasting peace.

In their goodwill messages, HRM Eze C.A. Obioma Nwaogu of Etitioha, the Traditional Prime Minister of Ipu West, Chief Maxwell Nwagbara, and a community leader, Mr. Adiligwe Nwoke, commended the Deputy Governor for his commitment to implementing the previous administration’s MoU and pledged to maintain peace in the clan.

Earlier, the Mayor of Ukwa West, Pastor Dike Nwankwo, emphasized the importance of local government participation in decision-making and monitoring processes. He lauded Emetu’s proactive steps toward lasting reconciliation.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with all parties reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity, and collaboration with oil and gas operators. It was attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Chijioke Nwankwo, security personnel, and other stakeholders.