By Adesina Soyooye
The Abia State Government has condemned, in strong terms, the activities of some criminal herdsmen in the state who have embarked on destruction of farmlands and the maiming, kidnapping and killing of innocent people.
The Government spoke in reaction to the activities of the herdsmen in Abia North Senatorial zone, where rampant kidnappings have held sway, no thanks to some criminal herdsmen.
The Government also frowned at the killing of cows in the area, saying it is aimed at worsening the situation.
A release signed by the Commissioner for Information, John Okiyi Kalu, warned the herdsmen of consequences, reminding them that open grazing remain banned in the state.
The State Governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, he said, has ordered security agents to go after the criminals.
Following is the full text of the release, dated 1st February, 2021.
“Abia State Government wishes to condemn in its entirety the recent destruction of farmlands by cows grazing openly in violation of extant laws of the state and Nigeria.
“It also condemns, without reservations, the activities of criminal herdsmen suspected to have masterminded recent brazen kidnap of innocent citizens around Abia North Senatorial Zone of the State.
“Consequently, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed security agents in the state to bring to justice all those involved in the criminal activities.
“Government also frowns seriously at the wanton destruction of cows by yet to be identified individuals whose aim is to exacerbate already existing tensions.
“Government has fully activated all relevant components of the state security architecture to ensure the safety of lives and property of law abiding citizens, residents and visitors to the state.
“We therefore call on the people to go about their legitimate businesses without fear as government is on top of the situation and will spare nothing in protecting Abians.”
The Eastern Security Network, ESN, set up by IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, has threatened to flush criminal herdsmen out of the South-east, if the Governors don’t arrest the situation.
