The House of Representatives on Thursday urged governments of Ebonyi and Abia to quickly resolve their boundary dispute currently affecting socio-economic activities in the states.

This followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Abia-PDP), representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, which was unanimously adopted by the house.

Onyejeocha noted with dismay the adverse effect of the dispute on the people of Ishiagu in Ebonyi and Lokpanta in Abia. According to her, peace in the communities has been jeopardised as a result of the persistent boundary dispute. She stressed the need for the house to mount pressure on both states for speedy resolution of the dispute.

The lawmaker alleged that the dispute had resulted to the proliferation of small arms in both communities and this had affected the exploration of natural resources in the areas. “This situation has continued to threaten the lives of people in the areas who no longer go to the farms.

“The degree of restiveness in the communities is still alarming and if no urgent action is taken to address the problem, it may escalate,’’ Onyejeocha said.

She also urged the house to mandate the Surveyor-General of the Federation to ensure proper demarcation of the boundary of the communities.
The Speaker of the house, Yakubu Dogara, referred the matter to the House Committee on Special Duties, when constituted, for further legislative actions.