Following the reported attacks in Abakaliki over an alleged invasion of gunmen in the state, Governor David Umahi has in line with the directive of President Muhammadu Buhari, ordered the security operatives in the State to shoot at sight any civilian seen holding guns.
There was pandemonium and chaos in Abakaliki, capital city of Ebonyi State, on Monday, as unknown gunmen allegedly invaded the State to enforce the sit-at-home declared by Finland-based Simon Ekpa.
The State capital was fully deserted as citizens scampered for safety, while thousands of traders who already opened their shops for businesses, abruptly closed for fear of being killed. It was also gathered that the popular Ebonyi International Market was abruptly closed, as well as all fuel stations in the State capital, shopping mall and other event centres in the State.
Umahi in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information Barr. Uchenna Orji noted the tension generated in the State over the purported ‘sit-at-home’ order and the apprehensions that followed the unfounded rumour called on civil servants, traders and residents of the State to go back to their businesses and normal activities. He assured them that all security measures have been put in place to secure lives and properties.
“We direct all security agencies and Ebubeagu Security Outfit to neutralise any miscreant found with a gun and or dangerous weapon in the state.” “This is because government has noted the tension generated in the state on Monday over the purported ‘sit-at-home’ order by non-state actors and the apprehensions that followed the unfounded rumour.
“Members of the public are enjoined to disregard the rumour of the purported enforcement of the ‘sit-at-home’ order in the state.
“It is false and nothing but a figment of the imaginations of enemies of the state fanned by opposition forces to scare law-abiding citizens.
“It is noteworthy to mention that no house was burnt and no killing was recorded in Ebonyi or any part thereof.
“The governor has directed security agencies and Ebubeagu Security outfit to constantly patrol Abakaliki and the various local government areas.
“Members of the public are enjoined to go about their normal businesses without fear. All markets, business centres and public places are to remain open.
