Ebonyi Assembly Approves Creation of New Autonomous Communities

The Ebonyi State House of Assembly on Monday approved Governor Francis Nwifuru’s request for the creation of Agbaja and Igbeagu autonomous communities in Izzi Local Government Area.

The approval took place during an emergency plenary session, presided over by Speaker Moses Odunwa, at the assembly complex.

Reading the governor’s letter, Odunwa explained that the creation of these autonomous communities would bring development closer to the grassroots and bolster security efforts in rural areas.

Godwin Abiri, representing Izzi West constituency, praised the governor’s initiative, noting that the expansive land areas of Agbaja, stretching from Hilltop to Benue, and Igbeagu, from Onuebonyi to Cross River, warranted the creation of more autonomous communities to enhance infrastructural growth.

Celestine Ifeanyi Ogba, representing Onicha East constituency, lauded Governor Nwifuru’s development agenda and urged the creation of additional autonomous communities from Oshiri, which he said remains the only area in old Ohaozara without such expansion.

Friday Ogbuewu, representing Ezza South constituency, advocated for the de-merging of Amegu and Amaezekwe, Amudo and Okofia, Ameka and Amelekwuna, and Azuebonyi, to facilitate better governance and peace.

Other lawmakers, including Arinze Lukas Chukwu (Ishelu South), Joseph Ununu (Abakalik South), Ifeanyi Nwakpu (Ikwo North), and Innocent Chikaodili Nomeh (Ezza North West), supported the move, emphasizing the importance of creating more autonomous communities to drive development and enhance security in rural areas.

Deputy Leader Joseph Ununu moved a motion for the passage of the request, seconded by Deputy Whip Lucas Arinze Chukwu. The motion was put to a vote by the Speaker and was unanimously approved.

The newly approved autonomous communities from the former Agbaja community include Mgbo Agbaja, Abofia Mgbo, Oferekpe Agbaja, Ndiechi Agbaja, Nduegu Agbaja, and Enyim. The four communities carved from Igbeagu are Ndubia, Nchoko, Ndiechi, and Iphuigwe.

The clerk of the assembly, Mrs. Uche Edene, was directed to notify the governor of the House’s decision.