By CHARLES IWUOHA

A diaspora group of Ebonyi indigenes resident in the United Kingdom and Ireland has pledged to provide humanitarian assistance worth ?2 million to Amasiri and Okporojo communities in Oso Edda to cushion the hardship faced by families affected by the recent crisis.

The group, under the umbrella of Ebonyi State Union UK & Ireland (ESU UK & Ireland), expressed confidence that through dialogue, negotiation and inclusive engagement, the cycle of violence between the two communities can be permanently resolved.

In a letter dated February 9, 2026, addressed to Governor Francis Nwifuru and made available to journalists, the union said the humanitarian intervention was aimed at demonstrating solidarity with the affected communities.

“It was with sadness and profound dismay that we received news of the violence, particularly through distressing images and reports circulated on social and mainstream media,” the letter stated.

The group described the conflict as deeply painful, noting the long-standing historical, cultural and familial ties between Amasiri and Okporojo.

“Both communities share common ancestral lineages, matrilineal bonds, inter-marriages and kinship networks. The loss of lives and destruction of property among people bound by blood and shared heritage is deeply distressing to all Ebonyi indigenes at home and in the diaspora,” it added.

The letter, signed by Chief Otu Chukwu-Etu (President General), Dr. Francis Ama Kalu (Secretary General), and Dr. Akanu Obasi (Vice President), among others, commended Governor Nwifuru for what it described as his prompt and decisive intervention in restoring calm.

The group particularly praised the swift deployment of security personnel and the imposition of a curfew, saying the measures prevented further escalation of violence and loss of lives.

It also acknowledged the governor’s previous efforts in resolving communal crises such as the Effium/Ezza and Isi Nkwo/Abaomege conflicts, describing him as a unifier and bridge-builder committed to protecting lives.

While observing a minute’s silence at its recent general meeting in honour of victims from both communities, the union extended condolences to bereaved families and called for justice through lawful means by identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the violence.

The group expressed optimism that with peace restored, normal activities, including the reopening of schools and free movement of people and goods, would resume, enabling development to continue in the affected areas.

Reaffirming its commitment to supporting the state government, ESU UK & Ireland urged residents of both communities to embrace dialogue and reconciliation.

“As a union in the diaspora, we remain steadfast in projecting the positive image of Ebonyi State abroad. We encourage our people to choose peace over conflict, as peace remains the only path to sustainable progress,” the letter concluded.

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