Governor of Abia State Alex Otti, vowed to take decisive action against individuals or groups fueling violence and insecurity in the state.
This stern warning follows a series of violent incidents, including the recent killing of two soldiers attached to the Joint Task Force South-East Operation UDO KA along the Umuahia-Owerri Road in Umuahia South Local Government Area.
In a statement released on Monday by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the government revealed that reliable intelligence and tip-offs from concerned citizens have pointed to a concerted effort by some unpatriotic politicians, in collaboration with external actors, to stir up unrest.
Ekeoma explained that these individuals aim to create disaffection and divert the state government’s focus from its development agenda.
This follows a failed attempt by these groups to discredit the government through fabricated lies, which were largely ignored by the people of Abia.
The statement emphasized that while the Abia State government is known for its peaceful disposition and commitment to unity, it will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation.
“We will not sit idly by and watch any person or group of persons unleash violence on innocent and peace-loving citizens of the state,” the statement warned.
Governor Otti’s administration has now launched a counter-offensive to dismantle any criminal structures in the state, urging citizens to refrain from harboring strangers to prevent becoming unwitting accomplices.
The statement assured residents that they could go about their businesses without fear, as the government remains determined to protect the lives and property of all Abians.
The government also stressed the importance of community cooperation in eliminating criminal elements.
“Kidnapping, armed robbery, ritual killings, and other heinous crimes are alien to the culture of our people,” it read, urging the public to work with authorities to rid the state of criminal activities.
Additionally, the statement issued a stern warning to anyone attempting to exploit the ongoing insecurity for political gain, stating that such individuals would face the full wrath of the law.
Community and traditional leaders were urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
Governor Otti also appealed to parents and guardians to closely monitor the activities of their children and loved ones, ensuring they are not involved in any criminal acts, and reinforcing the government’s commitment to taking firm action against criminality.
“The government will not yield to emotional blackmail or appeal in matters of established criminality,” the statement concluded.
