Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has assured that justice would be done to all parties in the dispute between the Diocese on the Niger, the Anglican Communion, and Nkwelle Ezunaka community.

He gave the assurance yesterday while receiving the report of the Special Committee set up by him to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the conflict which led to the midnight destruction of an Anglican Church building by unknown persons in the premises of Oyolu-Oze Primary School, Nkwelle Ezunaka. Tension rose when the Anglican Church faithful embarked on protest marches around the commercial city of Onitsha over the issue.

Governor had visited the school site on Friday, August 15, and unequivocally condemned the dastardly act. He promptly set up a six-man committee headed by the Deputy Governor of the state, Dr. Nkem Okeke, to look into the matter.

Receiving the report in the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia yesterday, Chief Obiano assured all the parties to the dispute of a fair and dispassionate implementation of the recommendations of the committee.

Said he: “I can see the volume of the report and I believe it shows the effort you put into the assignment. I wish to assure you that I will study the recommendations of the committee and ensure prompt implementation in a manner to will ensure justice and fairness to all parties.”

Governor Obiano reiterated the commitment of his administration to the promotion of justice, peace and fair play. He appealed for calmness from all the parties to the dispute while the report was being looked into for final implementation.

Earlier in a brief remark while presenting a bound copy of the report, the Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Okeke, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Professor Joe Asike, recalled that the committee was given two weeks to conclude its investigations and submit its recommendation, adding that members painstakingly devoted their time to meet the deadline.

The Chairman further pointed out that the Committee members took time to listen to all parties to the dispute and examine all documentary evidence and narratives pertaining to the disputed property without fear or favour.

He thanked all the parties for co-operating with the committee and turning up to give their separate accounts that helped the members of the committee to arrive at its recommendations in the report.

•Photo shows Governor Obiano.

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