A violent attack at Obikabia junction, reportedly carried out by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of security patrol vehicles.
The attack, which aimed to enforce a sit-at-home directive commemorating Biafra Day, was condemned by the Chairman of the South East Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma.
Addressing the media in Owerri on Thursday, Governor Uzodimma described the attack as “unfortunate” and expressed his condolences to the Chief of Army Staff and the families of the soldiers who were killed.
“On behalf of my fellow governors in the South East Governors’ Forum, I condemn this incident and the loss of the lives of soldiers who were at their duty posts.
Without any provocation, they were attacked by men of the underworld,” he stated.
Governor Uzodimma noted that the attack would significantly set back the ongoing peace process being pursued by the governors in collaboration with the Federal Government, security agencies, and other stakeholders to address security issues in the region.
“The unfortunate incident will also portray our people in a bad light, as if we do not have sympathy for human beings,” he added.
He assured the public that efforts are being intensified to ensure peace in the South East, which is essential for development.
Governor Uzodimma urged security agencies to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the attack and called on the residents, particularly in Imo State, to have confidence in the security measures put in place for their protection.
“We have peace in Imo; I want people to go about their businesses without fear of being molested by anyone. We are after the perpetrators.
Those who think we shouldn’t live should not live,” he emphasized.
The governor acknowledged that many people in the South East, driven by fear and memories of past conflicts, complied with the sit-at-home directive and urged them to find courage and trust in the government’s efforts to ensure their safety.