"We Are Brothers and Sisters": Minister Dave Umahi Breaks Silence on Amasiri-Oso Edda Land Crisis

Engr. Umahi 

The Honourable Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Nweze Umahi, has officially addressed the ongoing land dispute between the Amasiri and Oso-Edda communities, calling for an immediate end to the "inhumanity" and "devilish destruction" of lives and property. In a detailed statement titled "My Position," the Senator emphasized the deep-rooted cultural ties between the two clans, reminding residents that they have lived as "brothers and sisters" for generations.

​Senator Umahi revealed that while the dispute predates his own governorship (2015–2023), significant strides were made toward peace during his tenure. He specifically noted that a breakthrough was reached with the assistance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who graciously approved an army depot settlement to cover the entire disputed land area. This move was intended to provide a neutral buffer and a permanent resolution to the long-standing hostilities.

​Full Support for Governor Nwifuru’s Emergency Measures

​Addressing the recent escalation that led to beheadings and massive displacement, Senator Umahi threw his full weight behind the proactive steps taken by the current Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. He defended the Governor’s decision to impose a curfew and close schools, describing them as essential security measures to protect the indigenes of Amasiri while permanent reconciliation is brokered.

​"Those who are misinformed and criticizing the Governor’s actions do not understand the grave security implications of the actions they are demanding," Umahi stated. He clarified that Governor Nwifuru has discharged his constitutional duties without bias, maintaining no "extraordinary affinity" for either party. The Minister urged the Edda people to remain calm and resist the urge for reprisal attacks, warning that managed emotions are critical to preventing further bloodshed.

​A Call for Unity and Restraint

​The Minister’s intervention comes at a critical time as the state government implements sweeping sanctions, including the dissolution of community leadership and the removal of political appointees from the Amasiri clan. Umahi encouraged the people of Amasiri to trust the sincerity of the ongoing peace process and praised the restraint shown by leaders who served under his previous administration.

​"The Governor is the Chief Security Officer of the state... he has a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property," Umahi reminded critics. He concluded by urging Governor Nwifuru to remain focused and undeterred by political distractions, placing his trust in God as he works to restore lasting peace to the troubled border communities.