The Abia State Government has constituted an administrative panel of inquiry to investigate the causes of the recent crisis in Okun Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area.

The crisis last week resulted in the death of a youth, Mr. Igwe Akuma Akwu, and the destruction of houses and vehicles belonging to some indigenes of Okun Aku.

A public notice announcing the panel was signed by the Abia State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu.

According to the notice, Governor Alex Otti approved the panel following concerns over both the remote and immediate causes of the crisis and the need to identify individuals or groups directly or indirectly involved in escalating the conflict.

The panel will be chaired by Justice K. O. Nwosu (Rtd) and includes Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd); Mrs. Charity Okeagu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security; and the Director of Chieftaincy Affairs, who will serve as the panel’s secretary.

Other members are Obinna Chimbuo of the Abia State Ministry of Justice; Eze Kalu Ogbu; Eze Franklin Nwosu; and Mr. Ahamefula George, Head of Service, Ohafia Local Government.

The panel is expected to commence sitting immediately and submit its report within four weeks.

Commissioner Nwachukwu called on residents of Okun Aku, stakeholders, and concerned citizens to cooperate fully with the panel by providing information that will help restore peace to the community.