Abia State Government has expressed shock over the extrajudicial killing of yet another citizen by security agents stationed in Ohafia local government area of the State.
This was contained in a statement made available to Newsleverage reporter on Saturday, 18th April 2020.
Earlier today, we reported of the killing of late Ifeanyi Arunsi at Ebem Ohafia by a security agent which led to outrage by the youths.
The Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has appealed to all involved to remain calm and allow proper investigation done so as to bring those involved in such heinous crime go justice.
The statement reads, “Abia State Government is shocked to receive the news of yet another alleged extra-judicial killing of a citizen by security agents, this time in Ohafia. We are also receiving reports of ongoing skirmishes involving community youth and security agents.
The Governor appeals to all parties to ensure immediate restoration of calm to allow a proper investigation to be conducted with a view to bringing those who are culpable to justice. The Transition Council Chairman of Ohafia LGA, Prince Fred Idika, has been directed to immediately meet with the family of the bereaved and others affected by the unfortunate skirmish to express the sincere condolences of the Government of Abia State and reassure them that everything possible will be done to ensure that justice is served.”
According to the Commissioner for Information, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, the State will not accept any unwarranted killing of the citizen or residents of the State.
He stated, “that security agent enforcing the COVID-19 necessitated lockdown in the state does so within the operating guidelines for maintenance of internal security as issued to all arm bearing forces in Nigeria.”
“We wish to reiterate that we will not accept the unwarranted killing of any citizen or resident of the state and demand once more that security agents enforcing the COVID-19 necessitated lockdown in the state do so within the operating guidelines for maintenance of internal security as issued to all arm bearing forces in Nigeria. The reckless killing of unarmed civilians will not be tolerated by this administration and we call for an end to it forthwith.
Once again, we urge the youths in Ohafia in particular and the State, in general, to be calm as we shall leave no stone unturned in unravelling the circumstances that led to this latest unfortunate incident and ensure justice is served.
Thank you.”
Note that the Governor allowed a lockdown relaxation on Saturday and Sunday to allow people to refill as the lockdown continues on Monday.
