Press Statement
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 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.
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. 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 unraveling the circumstances that led to this latest unfortunate incident and ensure justice is served.
Thank you.
Chief John Okiyi Kalu
Honorable Commissioner for Information
18/04/2020
