The Ebonyi state government has lifted the curfew imposed on Amasiri community in Afikpo Local Government Area (LGA), signaling a major step toward restoring peace and normal life after weeks of unrest.
The curfew followed deadly attacks on neighboring Okporojo village in Edda LGA and Akpoha community in Afikpo LGA, which claimed about five lives.
Authorities linked the violence to a long-standing land dispute involving Amasiri and the affected communities.
Initially, the government imposed a 20-hour curfew, which was later eased to 12 hours before being completely lifted.
The decision was reached after a state security council meeting, where security chiefs reviewed the situation and assessed progress made through dialogue among the warring communities.
Announcing the development, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in the state, E.W. Kolawole, said although the curfew has been lifted, a minimal security presence will remain to maintain peace and prevent any resurgence of violence.
She added that suspects still at large will soon be declared wanted, with their names and photographs to be made public to ensure accountability.
Also speaking, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ben Odoh, said the decision followed appeals from residents of Amasiri and neighboring communities, as well as assurances of remorse and commitment to peace from stakeholders.
He commended traditional rulers and community elders for their role in mediating the crisis and promoting reconciliation.
Odoh further disclosed that the Amasiri Development Centre has been reinstated after consultations with stakeholders.
He noted that a bill passed by the Ebonyi State House of Assembly seeking to delist the centre was declined by Governor Francis Nwifuru in the interest of unity and justice.
In her remarks, the Head of Service, Rita-Mary Okoro, said schools and healthcare facilities in the area have been directed to reopen immediately as part of efforts to restore normalcy.
She added that public servants redeployed during the crisis will return to their duty posts.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Hope Okafor, confirmed that suspects arrested over the killing of the father of a former Ebonyi Deputy Governor and traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike Autonomous Community, Francis Igwe, will soon be charged to court.
The state security council emphasised that although peace is gradually returning, full recovery will take time. It reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that this responsibility will not be compromised.