Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Chairman of the South East Governors Forum has strongly condemned the killing of soldiers by hoodlums in Aba, Abia State.
The soldiers were ambushed and killed while on lawful duty, allegedly by those enforcing a sit-at- home order declared by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
“This dastardly act is unfortunate and without any reason.
“Innocent people doing their lawful duty were gunned down,” Governor Uzodimma said, when addressing the media at Government House Owerri on Thursday.
“I urge the security agencies to go all out and ensure that those behind it are caught and brought to book.”he said.
The Governor described the incident as a major setback to the peace process in the South East, which the Governors have been pursuing through engagements with the Federal government, security agencies, and other stakeholders.
He expressed concern that the action will portray the people of the South East in bad light, as if they do not value human life or appreciate the peace process.
He extended his condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Toured Lagbaja, the Nigeria Army, and the families of the slain soldiers.
He reiterated the resolve of the South East leadership to achieve peace and development in the region, and called on security agencies to do their job without hindrance.
“We should find courage and appreciate the fact that a lot of work has gone into the peace process,”
“The South East region craves peace, and I advise the people to come out and go about their businesses without fear of molestation by anybody.”he said.
The Governor described the perpetrators as criminals propelled by memories of the past, and urged the people to support the peace process.
“My government is doing its best in the area of security, and God is supporting and helping us,” he said.
In a statement, Oguwike Nwachuku, Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor, quoted Governor Uzodimma as saying, “We will not leave any stone unturned to ensure that the needed peace to develop our region is achieved.”