The member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Ibe Okwara Osonwa, has called on the attention of Federal Government to the lingering boundary dispute between Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State and Utuma community in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Hon. Osonwa made the call through a motion he moved on the floor of the House on Wednesday, during the plenary of the 10th House of Representatives.
He noted that most of his constituents in Isu clan are now refugees in Obieze, Amukabi and Ututu communities, saying that the boundary dispute has led to the loss of over 500 lives and people living in an appalling state.
In the motion he sponsored alongside Emil Inyang (APC, Cross River), titled ‘an urgent need to establish a peacekeeping military post between Isu community, Arochukwu LGA, Abia State and Utuma community in Biase LGA, of Cross River State to institute peace over long-lasting boundary dispute’, Osonwa sought the House to urge “the House Committee on Defence to quickly set-up a Peacekeeping Post between the boundary community to intervene and restore order, peace and normalcy in the affected
communities to forestall and prevent the continued loss of lives and properties.
“Direct the House Committee on Peace and National Reconciliation to investigate the matter and report back to the House,” and “urge the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to delineate the boundary that will bring a permanent restoration of peace and tranguility in the troubled area.
“Mandate the House Committee on Rural Development and Poverty Alleviation to Urge the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to intervene with relief materials including
food, clothing and medications for the IDPs.”
