The traditional ruler of the Lilu community in the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, His Majesty Igwe Godson Onyediri, was visibly moved over the weekend as he spoke about the tremendous human and infrastructure losses endured by his community in the last five years due to insurgency- related violence.
Despite his emotional state, he praised the youth for coming together to host a summit aimed at recovery and emphasized that Lilu is already on a path to healing.
Onyediri, whose palace was destroyed during the initial wave of violence that affected Lilu and surrounding communities straddling Anambra State and Imo State's Orlu zone, fervently prayed that similar violence would not return to the area.
He addressed the youths, saying, “Knowing full well that we have no other home but Lilu, you all chose to unite and pool both human and material resources to forge a way forward. I commend your efforts.”
He added, “I assure you and everyone from Lilu that all will be well again. It will not be long.”
Onyediri recognized that the rampant violence will soon be relegated to history.
He stated that Governor Chukwuma Soludo has not overlooked Lilu, mentioning plans are in progress to uplift the community, indicating a brighter future ahead for its residents.
The monarch expressed hope that those who had fled the community, himself included, would soon return home.
He called on citizens to work collaboratively, stating, “We have no other place to call home except Lilu. I urge all stakeholders, sons, and daughters, to abandon any divisive tendencies, regardless of one’s standing within the community, and work towards mutual peace for all.”
He condemned individuals he believes are undermining peace, progress, and communal well-being.
Furthermore, he noted that those laboring diligently for peaceful conditions in Lilu would be remembered by future generations.
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