In a bid to put a stop to incessant kidnappings in the Umunneochi local government, Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu has ordered Herdsmen residing in the forests around Umunneochi to vacate with immediate effect.
The order is coming few days after the governor and his entourage visited Umunneochi local government over reports of Kidnappings allegedly carried out by Fulani Herdsmen residing inside the forest.
AbaCityBlog reported that Youths in Umunneochi had protested against incessant kidnappings, the protesters called on governor Ikpeazu to act and put a stop to it. The youths, also demanded the military checkpoints be dismantled, accusing the military of complicity.
However, during his visit, Gov Ikpeazu promised Umunneochi leaders and stakeholders that a solution will be provided stressing that it pains him to see Abians in danger.
In a statement issued on Sunday, signed by the Abia Commissioner for information, Eze Chikamnayo, Gov Ikpeazu ordered herdsmen residing inside forest around Umunneochi to vacate. Citing that their safety no longer guarantee.
The statement reads: “That the Commissioner of Police, Abia State alongside with Umunneochi Youths, provide immediate Security along the Ihube to Isuochi Road stretching from Ngodo through Lomara Junction all the Way to Ihube.
“Upon the implementation of the above directive, The Governor directs the Chairman of Umunneochi LGA, Chief Ifeanyi Madu to open the Road leading from Ihube through Lomara Junction to Ngodo Isuochi immediately.
“The Commissioner of Police, Abia State has been mandated to draw up logistic requirements for mounting six additional check points at strategic locations across Umunneochi LGA.
“Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu hereby directs that all settlers, herders and individuals residing inside the forests around Umunneochi LGA to vacate such locations with immediate effect. Government can no longer guarantee the safety of any person or group found to be residing in the forests around Umunneochi LGA.
“All Cows and herders around Umunneochi LGA are hereby restricted strictly to the Cattle Market located at Umuchieze until a final decision is reached concerning the menace in the Cattle Market.
“The Leadership of the Youths of Umunneochi LGA, Vigilante Groups, Hunters and the Hausa Community will continue to meet with the Governor until an amicable solution is found to the incessant cases of Insecurity in the area.
“His Excellency, Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu urges all parties to show restraint and circumspection in their utterances and actions in order to maintain the peace and promote peaceful coexistence of all law abiding citizens.
