The chairman of the Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, Eric Odo, has officially flagged off the demarcation of the Aku and Kolo boundary, ending a long-standing land dispute between the two communities.

Speaking while flagging off the exercise at Ogbede on Friday, Mr Odo revealed that the land dispute started in 1914.

He said the problem had claimed several lives and properties over the years, noting that it could have been avoided.

The council boss noted that with the demarcation exercise, his administration had successfully resolved the issue amicably.

He maintained that the resolution was in fulfilment of his campaign promise to restore peace and unity in the communities.

“The peace we brokered would permanently end the crisis that had caused psychological and economic hardship to the people,” the council boss said.

Mr Odo commended Governor Peter Mbah and his deputy, Ifeanyi Ossai, for providing the enabling environment for peace to return to the two communities.

Traditional rulers, president-generals, and councillors from both communities pledged their commitment to lasting peace and mutual coexistence.

Community leaders and residents of both Aku and Ikolo hailed Mr Odo’s intervention as a historic step that would guarantee the safety of lives and property in the areas.

(NAN)