In what has been described as a watershed moment in the history of Akwa Village, Ifitedunu, Dunukofia Local Government Area, the residents of the once-troubled community have expressed profound and heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, for his timely and decisive intervention in restoring peace, law, and order to their beloved community.
The show of appreciation was made public through a statement issued by High Chief Dr. (Sir) Prince Uche Oduche, popularly known as IKENGA Ifitedunu and IKENGA Dunukofia, a highly respected son of the soil and community leader. The statement, addressed to the state government and the people of Anambra, praised Governor Soludo’s wisdom and leadership, which he described as “visionary and people-focused.”
“Your Excellency, your leadership continues to demonstrate that no problem is insurmountable under your watch. Your decision to constitute a Caretaker Committee in Akwa Village is a masterstroke that has brought back peace, order, and unity to our beloved community,” the statement reads.
Akwa Village had, in recent months, been embroiled in a bitter and potentially explosive leadership and land dispute that had sown deep divisions, threatened livelihoods, and created a state of unrest. According to community insiders, the conflict, largely driven by a group described as “land grabbers” and “anti-peace elements,” had escalated to a point where intervention from the highest levels of government became inevitable.
Governor Soludo, known for his proactive governance style, took swift and calculated action by mandating the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters to intervene. This culminated in the appointment of a Caretaker Committee, a move that has since calmed tensions and restored confidence among villagers.
The gratitude of the people was not only reserved for the Governor. The traditional ruler of Ifitedunu, His Royal Highness, Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno, was lauded for his relentless efforts in ensuring that the crisis did not spiral out of control. His collaboration with the state government and the Town Union was described as a “courageous act of leadership.”
Similarly, accolades were showered on the President General of Ifitedunu Town Union, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, engaging stakeholders and lobbying for state attention. Their combined efforts, community members say, served as a stabilizing force during what many called “a time of great uncertainty.”
In particular, the community also acknowledged the contribution of Hon. TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, Anambra State’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, whose strategic role in mediating conflicts across the state continues to earn him accolades.
“Your wisdom and boldness have dismantled crises that once threatened the peace of entire towns. Akwa Village stands today as a testament to your tireless dedication,” the statement noted.
The newly appointed leader of the Caretaker Committee, Mr. Solution, popularly known as Olu Atuegwu, was also praised for his grassroots-oriented leadership, transparency, and commitment to justice and order. His entry into the fray, according to the villagers, has “brought a breath of fresh air” to a village once on the brink.
“Please be assured of our unwavering support as you serve our community with dedication and integrity. Our people are now able to sleep peacefully once again,” the statement added.
In a strong message to those attempting to disrupt the newly restored peace, the community warned against supporting individuals or groups who oppose the caretaker structure, labeling them as “land grabbers” with no interest in the welfare of Akwa people.
“Let it be known that any group opposing this caretaker committee is merely a gang of land grabbers, bent on disrupting the peace we’ve regained,” said Chief Oduche.
The impact of this intervention is already visible on the ground. Reports from Akwa Village indicate that normalcy has returned, residents are going about their daily business peacefully, and local development activities have resumed.
There is a renewed sense of hope, unity, and optimism as villagers begin to rebuild and reimagine their collective future, now anchored on a stronger foundation of peace, equity, and justice.
The gratitude statement concluded with a resounding vote of thanks to all those who played a role in steering the community away from the brink:
“Thank you, Eze Dunukofia.
Thank you, Mr. President General.
Thank you, Your Excellency.
God bless Anambra State.
God bless Akwa Village.
God bless Ifitedunu.”
Signed:
High Chief Dr. (Sir) Prince Uche Oduche
IKENGA Ifitedunu
IKENGA Dunukofia
Okunaenyeife Ifitedunu
