Ngwogwo Community in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has petitioned Governor Francis Nwifuru over an alleged attack on its women by persons from Mpu Community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, amid a long-standing land dispute between the two communities.
In a petition signed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Roy O.U. Nwaeze, on behalf of the community, Ngwogwo alleged that six women were assaulted while working on farms located within the disputed area on June 12, 2026. The community claimed that two of the victims sustained serious injuries requiring hospital treatment, while food items, farming tools, and other belongings were allegedly taken during the incident.
The community described the attack as unprovoked and accused members of Mpu Community of a sustained pattern of intimidation and interference with its occupation of the disputed land.
Ngwogwo further maintained that it has consistently embraced peaceful and lawful means of resolving the dispute, warning that the situation could escalate into a wider inter-state conflict if urgent action is not taken.
The petition called on Governor Nwifuru to direct the Ebonyi State Boundary Committee to investigate the matter, collaborate with Enugu State authorities on a joint boundary verification exercise, and strengthen security presence in the affected area to protect farmers and residents.
The community also urged security agencies to investigate the alleged attack and appealed for a permanent and legally recognised demarcation of the disputed boundary.
Ngwogwo reiterated its commitment to peaceful coexistence and lawful dispute resolution, expressing hope that government intervention would prevent further tension and preserve harmony between the neighbouring communities of Ebonyi and Enugu states.
