By Christiana Ekpa
The lawmaker representing Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State, Hon. Chinedu Ogah, has dismissed allegations of genocide levelled against Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, describing the claims as baseless, spurious and capable of inciting tension.
A human rights activist, Joy Idam, had accused Governor Nwifuru of committing genocide against the Amasiri community following a protracted land dispute with a neighbouring community that reportedly resulted in loss of lives and property.
But addressing journalists at a press conference, Ogah strongly refuted the allegation, insisting that it was misleading and far removed from the reality on ground. He called on Idam to apologise to the people of Ebonyi State for what he termed inflammatory and false accusations.
According to the federal lawmaker, Governor Nwifuru has demonstrated proactive leadership in tackling insecurity and resolving long-standing communal clashes across the state.
“Before the inauguration of this governor, nearly 10 communities were engaged in communal conflicts. Through deliberate engagement with stakeholders and community leaders, most of these disputes have been resolved,” Ogah said.
He explained that in response to renewed tensions in Amasiri, the governor constituted a panel to investigate the crisis and recommend solutions. He noted that the curfew imposed in the area was a preventive security measure to forestall further violence and has since been relaxed as calm returned.
Ogah criticised Idam for allegedly being absent from the state for years, arguing that she lacked firsthand knowledge of the situation.
“It is unfair for anyone who is not on ground to accuse the governor of genocide. Such statements are not only false but capable of escalating tensions,” he stated.
The lawmaker further highlighted what he described as key achievements of the Nwifuru administration, including youth empowerment programmes, infrastructural development, and inclusive governance.
He disclosed that about 400 Ebonyi youths are currently on overseas scholarship in the United Kingdom, with beneficiaries drawn from Amasiri and other communities across the state. He also pointed to ongoing construction of classroom blocks in various local government areas and security initiatives empowering traditional rulers to strengthen grassroots peacebuilding.
