Abia confirms killings and hunt for the muderers
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Abia State has confirmed that gunmen killed eight traders at the New Cattle Market in Omumauzor in Ukwa West Council on Tuesday as earlier reported by TheNiche.
A statement sent in by Information and Strategy Commissioner Eze Chikamnayo confirmed the killings took place at about 11:35pm, perpetrated by hoodlums who have not been identified.
“Government responded swiftly by mobilising the various security agencies to the scene that night to secure the lives and properties of the innocent traders and fish out the assailants,” he explained
He said “this was followed up this morning” by a team comprising Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s Chief of Staff ACB Agbazuere, Trade and Investment Commissioner John Kalu, Homeland Security Commissioner Sopuruchi Bekee, and Ukwa West Council Chairman Okey Kanu, accompanied by Police Commissioner Janet Agbede.
Chikamnayo added: “We are shocked and saddened by this mindless and barbaric act of violence that claimed the lives of about 8 innocent citizens of our great country and we totally condemn this dastardly act together with it’s wicked perpetrators.
“We are working assiduously to provide succour to the families of the victims. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention.
“We have equally started the immediate relocation of the traders while working out compensation for lost properties. We shall leave no stone unturned to ensure that the evil perpetrators are brought to justice.
“While waiting for the outcome of ongoing investigations by our diligent security forces, … Ikpeazu together with all Abians pray for God to grant the families of victims the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“We urge all citizens of our great country in Abia State to remain law abiding and promptly report any suspicious movements to the appropriate authorities.”
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Abia peace shattered
TheNiche reported earlier on Wednesday how the serene atmosphere in Abia was shattered last night by gunmen who killed many persons during an invasion of the newly constructed cattle market
When TheNiche called Abia State officials, they pleaded for time, saying they were already working on a statement.
“Please, give us about 30 minutes. We are working on a statement. We will get back to you soon. But the story is true,” said one Commissioner who pleaded anonymity.
Another commissioner added: “The story is true. We have been monitoring the situation since last night. It is a sensitive situation and we don’t want to raise tension. We will come out with an official reaction.”
Asked if the government knows those behind the attack, he said it was too early to say.
“We don’t want to speculate. Let the security agencies do their work. But whoever is behind this senseless attack does not mean well for our people.”