By Chinedum Treasure
Anambra businessman and philanthropist, Chief Sir Nonso Ozoemena (Ugegbe Anam), has appealed to youths of Aguleri and Umuoba Anam to reject violence and embrace dialogue in resolving the lingering land dispute between the two communities.
Ozoemena, a native of Umuoba Anam, made the appeal in a statement on Sunday following violent confrontations that have reportedly led to loss of lives and destruction of property.
He described the situation as unfortunate and unnecessary, stressing that meaningful development could not take place in an atmosphere of hostility and insecurity.
“Violence does not solve any problem. The only sustainable path to resolving this dispute is through dialogue, understanding and respect for the peace process,” he said.
The founder and Executive Director of Ugegbe Foundation also denied reports circulating on social media allegedly linking him to the conflict or accusing him of financing the “war efforts” of Umuoba Anam.
Ozoemena described the allegations as false and said they were capable of putting his life and property at risk.
He disclosed that following the allegations, the military searched his residence and found nothing incriminating.
The philanthropist said the incident underscored the need for responsible communication, especially at a time when tensions remained high in the area.
He reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful coexistence between Aguleri and Umuoba Anam, saying his origin should not be misconstrued as support for violence.
Ozoemena particularly appealed to youths on both sides to resist being used to perpetrate violence and instead channel their energy towards education, employment, economic empowerment and community development.
“Our youths must understand that violence will only destroy the future they are expected to build. They should reject every attempt to use them as instruments of destruction and focus their energy on grassroots development,” he said.
He also urged community leaders, parents, youth organisations and other stakeholders to intensify reconciliation efforts and support peaceful mechanisms for resolving outstanding grievances.
Ozoemena called on both communities to avoid inflammatory statements and actions capable of escalating the crisis, stressing that lives lost could not be recovered and destroyed property could not easily be replaced.
“Let us give peace a chance. Our people deserve to live, work and raise their families without fear. The greatest victory for Aguleri and Umuoba Anam will not be over who defeats the other, but over how we build communities where our children can prosper,” he added.
Tags: Aguleri, Umuoba Anam, Anambra Land Dispute, Nonso Ozoemena
