Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has approved N15 million for the burial of 43 people from the Ogwuaniocha community in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
These individuals were killed during a violent internal conflict that erupted in the oil-producing area in November 2021.
The cheque was handed over to the President General of Ogwuaniocha Progressive Association, Vitalis Ekweanua, by the State Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Anthony Ifeanya.
The presentation took place in the presence of other key members of the community.
The crisis not only caused the death of dozens of residents but also led to the destruction of homes and forced many to flee.
Several buildings, schools, and health centres were badly affected, leaving the once-active community in ruins.
Governor Soludo was praised for his support, and the commissioner hinted that the government plans to bring development projects to the area.
However, community leaders said the problems in Ogwuaniocha go beyond the mass burial.
They asked for more help from the government, including rebuilding infrastructure, restoring education, and improving healthcare.
According to the community head, most children are out of school, and a large number of houses remain uninhabitable.
He also raised concerns over oil exploration in the area, saying it has damaged farmland and rivers, stopping fishing and farming activities.
No compensation has reportedly been paid to affected residents.
The traditional ruler of the town, who was kidnapped during the crisis in 2021, has still not been found.
The community appealed to the governor to do more, including building a bridge over Ulasi River to link Ogwuaniocha to Ihiala Local Government Area.
The people of the area expressed strong support for Governor Soludo and promised to vote for him in the upcoming November 2025 governorship election.
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