A concerned citizen, Com. John Ebi, has described the inauguration of an Administrative Panel of Inquiry by the Abia State Government to investigate the deadly crisis in Okon-Aku community as a welcome and commendable step.
Reacting to the inauguration on Tuesday, Com. Ebi, said the move reflects a willingness by Governor Dr. Alex Otti to listen to the voices of the people and respond decisively to a matter that has shaken the conscience of the community.
While commending Governor Otti on the move, Ebi expressed hope that the panel’s work will provide not only answers, but also justice, healing, and lasting peace.
He added that for the people of Okon-Aku, and particularly, the family of the late Mr. Igwe Akuma Akwu, this process represents the last institutional opportunity for closure after a tragic and deep painful loss.
Speaking further, Ebi noted that the success of this panel will depend entirely on its independence, transparency, and fidelity to truth, reminding the panel and the public that this is an administrative panel of inquiry, not an executive or political exercise and as such, no individual, regardless of rank or office, should enjoy preferential treatment, immunity, or undue influence in the course of these proceedings.
Ebi also emphasised that the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu who has been allegedly linked to the crisis, remains a subject of inquiry like any other individual and must not, directly or indirectly, influence the panel’s work through executive authority, informal directives, or so-called executive orders.
Com. Ebi called on both Hon. Ekea Udensi and the Deputy Governor to refrain entirely from engaging the panel whether privately or publicly and outside formally invited and recorded proceedings.
He warned that any attempt by either party to lobby, brief, pressure, or influence members of the panel outside its official sittings would amount to a direct assault on the purpose of the inquiry and a betrayal of the Governor’s stated objective of achieving lasting peace.
Ebi further reminded the panel that the public will be watching this process closely just as civil society actors, community stakeholders, and concerned citizens will monitor the activities of all parties involved, including members of the panel, to ensure strict adherence to due process.
He also cautioned that credible evidence of secret meetings, back-channel communications, or improper engagements with panel members will be documented and brought to public attention, as such actions would undermine not only the inquiry but also the fragile peace of Okon-Aku.
While acknowledging the enormous and lofty responsibility bestowed on the panel, Com. Ebi noted that the findings of the panel will shape public trust in government, determine whether justice is served, and influence whether Okon-Aku moves toward reconciliation or deeper division.
He added that history will judge its work not by eloquent assurances, but by the courage of its conclusions, maintaining that the people of Okon-Aku, and indeed Abia State, await the truth.
Panel of Enquiry on Okon Aku Crisis: Concerned Citizen Commends Gov Otti, Calls for Transparency
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