The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says a communal clash in Anambra State left about 2,000 people displaced.
The agency also reported that 10 people were either killed or declared missing. About 150 houses suffered destruction during the violence.
The clash involved Umuoba Anam and Aguleri communities in Anambra East Local Government Area.
NEMA Enugu Zonal Head of Operations, Priscilla Madukwe, disclosed the figures during an assessment visit on Saturday, November 14.
Officials from NEMA and the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) joined the exercise. Anambra East Local Government Chairman, Ifeanyi Chinweze, also accompanied the team.
Madukwe said the October violence destroyed homes, shops, factories, vehicles and other property. The damage affected both indigenes and non-indigenes living in the communities.
“The level of damage is unfortunate. Our findings will be submitted to the Federal Government for possible assistance to the victims to enable them to return to their homes,” she said.
Monarch’s Palace Destroyed in the Violence
The clash also destroyed a traditional ruler’s palace. The incident prompted Governor Chukwuma Soludo to convene a peace meeting with community stakeholders in Awka.
More than a month after the violence, residents had yet to return to the affected areas. Security personnel remained deployed to maintain peace and order.
NEMA said it would submit its assessment findings to the Federal Government. The report will help determine possible assistance for displaced residents.
Madukwe urged community leaders and other stakeholders to resolve the dispute and prevent further violence.
Anambra Government Sets Up Inquiry Committee
Anambra East Local Government Chairman Ifeanyi Chinweze said authorities were working to resolve the disagreements behind the clash.
He urged residents to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence. Chinweze also said the curfew had helped restore calm.
Meanwhile, SEMA Head of Administration, Ndidi Omega, said the state government had established a committee to investigate the crisis.
The committee will recommend ways to prevent another outbreak and identify possible support for affected residents.
The assessment comes as thousands of displaced people await assistance and the opportunity to return home.
