Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State has expressed the strong determination of his administration to use every lawful means to protect and safeguard every inch of the territory of Abia State from criminals and marauders.
The governor, who spoke yesterday at Akirika Obu Community in Ukwa East LGA when he visited the community to assess the current situation on the heels of reports of some unlawful invasion of the Community by some criminal elements. He made it clear Akirika Obu Community in Ukwa East LGA is a part and parcel of Abia State, and as such, his government will take every lawful step to protect it from any form of unlawful invasion.
Okezie made it clear that his administration will resist any form of expansionist agenda, either by communities from neighboring states or from any outlawed group by whatever name called.
Speaking to the delight and admiration of the people of the community, Okezie assured them that every available space in the community will, henceforth, be well guarded.
He informed them that the military had come to stay in their community permanently to ensure their safety and protection.
The governor told them that he responded to distress calls from the community on the invasion of their homeland by hoodlums from both a neighboring community in Akwa Ibom State and from a group, which had been outlawed by the federal government.
Ikpeazu, who also spoke on the lingering boundary dispute between the Akirika Obu Community and their neighbors in Ika Local Government of Akwa Ibom State, said that the matter is before the National Boundaries Commission and until a final determination is made, Akirika Obu remains in Abia State.
He pledged to exercise his powers as governor by ensuring that the status quo is maintained, and especially that the lives and properties of the people are safeguarded.
Executive Chairman of Ukwa East LGA, Hon. Chuks Wabara, speaking earlier, expressed delight at the visit of the governor, noting that this was the very first time a sitting Governor was visiting the area.
Member representing Ukwa East State Constituency at the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Paul Taribo, expressed gratitude to the governor for his prompt action to his people’s distress call.