The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), through its Enugu Operations Office (EOO), has conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the recent communal conflict in Oso Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The assessment, carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency (EBSEMA), and members of the media, was aimed at determining the causes of the crisis, evaluating the extent of damage, identifying the needs of affected residents, and making recommendations for intervention.
The NEMA team was received by the Chairman of Oso Edda LGA, Hon. Ekuma Nkama Chima, shortly after a visit by the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency, Francis Nwifuru, to the affected communities.
Speaking on behalf of the Head of the Enugu Operations Office, Mrs. Ngozi Echeazu, Mrs. Shantel Chukwu conveyed the sympathies of the Federal Government and NEMA to families who lost loved ones, homes, and property during the crisis. She urged residents to remain hopeful and embrace dialogue and peaceful methods in resolving disputes.
According to findings from the assessment, the conflict occurred on January 29, 2026, between 5:30 a.m. and 7:20 a.m., following a land dispute involving four communities in the area. The clash led to the destruction of several houses, shops, household items, goods, and farmlands worth millions of naira.
Many residents were displaced and are currently taking shelter with relatives and friends. Several people sustained injuries, while four persons were reportedly killed during the violence.
Community leaders who participated in the assessment commended NEMA and other agencies for their swift response. They also appealed to the Federal Government, through NEMA, to provide relief materials and other forms of assistance to help affected families recover.
The assessment visit was conducted on January 31, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian impact of the crisis and promote lasting peace in the area.
