From Uchenna Inya, Abakaliki

The two communities have been embroiled in a conflict since 1912 over fertile land, resulting in numerous deaths and property losses worth billions of naira.

Governor Francis Nwifuru established a committee to resolve the crisis, which issued a white paper recommending demarcation as a permanent solution. The process began in February but faced a setback on Tuesday, May 20, when the excavator was burnt. Journalists, soldiers, and local officials inspected the site on Thursday, confirming the damage.

Onicha Local Government Chairman, Chief Ikechukwu Ogbofia, speaking through Public Relations Officer Omekannaya Orogwu, described the incident as sabotage, stating, “There is no amount of threat, there is no amount of sabotage that will stop the ongoing demarcation of the communities because to us as a government, that will bring permanent solutions to that age-old war.”

He noted that one community had threatened to destroy equipment a week earlier if the demarcation did not align with their preferences.

Furthermore, Ogbofia vowed to intensify the demarcation efforts and urged both communities to embrace peace. Nwankwo Chidiebere, a demarcation worker, explained that the excavator malfunctioned on Monday, preventing its removal, and was burnt on Tuesday night after arrangements for repairs were underway. The traditional ruler of Ishinkwo informed soldiers of the incident.