Gov. Ikpeazu Condemns Killing of Citizens by Security Operatives

Abia State Governor Dr Okezie Ikpeazu has condemned in strong terms the unwholesome killing of the Ohafia born Friday lfeanyi Arunsi and other Abia citizens by deviant police officers in the state.

Dr Ikpeazu who made the condemnation when he paid a condolence visit to the family of Friday Ifeanyi Arunsi, the victim that was shot down by a police Constable attached to the Ohafia police command as well as to ascertain the level of attendant destruction of properties carried out by youths of Ohafia in protest over the incident which he described as very unfortunate and regrettable.

The Governor represented by his Deputy Sir Ude Oko Chukwu expressed Government’s displeasure over the recent killings of Abia citizens by trigger happy police officers who ordinarily should be protecting lives and property warned that Govt will no longer tolerate such provocative killings as it will ensure that law takes its full course on the culprits to serve as a deterrent to others.

He regretted that the ugly incident happened at a period the State and Country are in total lockdown battling with the Corona Virus Pandemic and used the forum to commend the Army Commandant, Ohafia and his men for their gallant and timely intervention that brought down tension and prevented further casualties in the area.

Speaking while briefing the Governor’s representative, over the incident, Area Commander, Nigeria Police Divisional Headquarters, Ebem Ohafia, Toyin Sulyman who said the suspect, a police Constable will face the full wrath of the law thanked the State Govt for coming to ascertain the level of damage done in the area as well as appreciated the professional manner the Army Brigade Commander exhibited in quelling the crisis.

Speaking also, the Uncle to the deceased victim, Chief Ubani Kalu Ukpai said they are heartbroken at the killing of young Friday Ifeanyi who was so full of life, hardworking and resourceful however thanked Govt for coming to console them while praying for justice to be done in the matter.

The Governor’s representative also visited people that sustained injuries during the incident at Mben Hospital, Ebem Ohafia as well as inspected premises of the Nigeria Police Divisional Headquarters, the High Court and other establishments.

The Deputy Speaker, Abia House of Assembly, Mr Ifeanyi Uchendu, the Brigade Commander, 14 Brigade Ohafia, Major General SB Kumapayi, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Dr D.K Uduma, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Ukpai Agwu Ukpai, the Transition Committee, Chairman of Ohafia LGA, Chief Fred Eke Idika among others were present during the visit.

Charles reporting from deputy governor’s office.
19th April 2020.