The traditional ruler of Effium Autonomous Community, HRH Sunday Aliba (Ogaba Idu IV), has urgently called on the Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to intervene and support the rebuilding of his war-torn community.
The monarch made the appeal during the grand finale of events commemorating his first anniversary on the throne, held at the Effium Cultural Centre.
Although peace has been restored following the devastating 2021 intra-communal crisis, Aliba highlighted persistent humanitarian challenges and widespread destruction of infrastructure. He noted that critical facilities—including roads, schools, hospitals, and homes—were severely damaged, resulting in widespread displacement and vulnerability among residents.
He commended Ebonyi State Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for his proactive efforts in restoring peace after years of conflict.
“There is an urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis facing our people as a result of the unfortunate war. Food, medical supplies, and other relief materials should be provided to displaced persons, widows, orphans, and the aged,” the monarch said.
Describing the anniversary as a “new beginning,” Aliba urged youths, women, and elders to stay united and sustain the hard-won peace.
“We have to put on our thinking caps to ensure that the peace we enjoy today is sustained. The task ahead is enormous; therefore, all hands must be on deck to ensure the rapid economic recovery of our community,” he added.
In a move to drive development, the royal father inaugurated 96 individuals into his cabinet, elders council, and leaders council, pledging close collaboration to advance Effium’s progress.
The occasion’s chairman, Clement Odah—represented by Omenka Nicodemus, Special Assistant to the Governor on Rural Development—praised the large turnout and encouraged collective efforts toward unity and reconstruction.
The event drew dignitaries from neighboring Benue State communities, along with traditional rulers from Nsturakpa-Izhia and Umuaghara Izhia, underscoring regional interest in Effium’s recovery.
