Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has called for calm, compassion, and dialogue following the recent violent incident in Okon-Aku community, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.
In a statement issued on January 7, 2026, the lawmaker described the incident as deeply troubling, stressing that the people of Okon-Aku are “brothers and sisters whose pain is our collective pain.”
Kalu who holds the Traditional Title of “Ikenga Ohafia Kingdom” in the Local Government expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, those injured, and residents who suffered losses during the crisis. He said his thoughts and prayers remain with the community as it navigates the difficult aftermath of the incident.
The Abia North Lawmaker commended the Abia State Police Command for its swift intervention in restoring calm, as well as the Ohafia Council of Monarchs for their sustained efforts at mediation and reconciliation, noting that their leadership and commitment to peace are worthy of appreciation.
Warning against the far-reaching consequences of violence, Kalu said continued hostilities would only deepen suffering, discourage investment, disrupt livelihoods, and undermine the collective future of the people. He therefore urged all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities and embrace dialogue, allowing constituted authorities and security agencies to work toward a just and lasting resolution.
“As your representative in the Nigerian Senate, I stand ready to support any initiative that promotes reconciliation, upholds the rule of law, and guarantees the safety and well-being of every resident of Okon-Aku and the entire Abia North Senatorial District,” he said.
Describing Okon-Aku as a community dear to him, Senator Kalu emphasized the need for a return to peace, unity, and mutual respect, values he said have long defined the people of Abia North.
He also called on Governor Alex Otti to swiftly intervene to restore lasting peace in the community, in line with due process, transparency, and the traditions of the Ohafia people.
“Together, we can heal, rebuild trust, and move forward peacefully,” the statement concluded.
Recall that the Community had engulfed into crisis during which a youth, Mr Igwe Akuma from Ndi Uma compound, was on Friday killed and severe others critically injured.
Also, houses, vehicles and other property belonging to some individuals in the community were set ablaze by youths.
A statement issued by the Udumeze of Ohafia, Ezie Ohamoha Awa Orji Udonsi, and the Ohafia Council of Monarchs on Saturday condemned the killing of the youth and the attendant arson that followed his murder.
The Abia State Police Command also confirmed that it had commenced an investigation into the incident that led to the death of Igwe Akwu.
The Police in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Maureen Chioma Chinaka, said normalcy had been restored in the community, adding that some suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.
