Following the disturbances which took place few days ago in some parts of Ohafia, in Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has called for calm.
Recall that the crisis reportedly erupted following the visit of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to Okon two days ago in which there was a confrontation between his Security Battalion and the ESN leading to the death of a young girl by stray bullet.
It also was reported that the Army has besieged the entire town, terrorising residents and indigenes alike with the claim that one of them was also shot in the gun duet.
The crisis has crippled economic activities and movements in Ohafia with streets deserted as soldiers are said to be shooting sporadically in the air, causing panic and palpable fear on the citizens.
Newsmen reported that five casualties have been recorded so far as a result of the rampage by the military.
A Press statement issued to newsmen by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor,Onyebuchi Ememanka said Governor Ikpeazu has been fully briefed on the incident and has expressed shock by the “reckless display of disregard for human lives”.
Part of the press statement reads: “First, the Governor is deeply saddened by reports of loss of lives in the incident and sends his sincere condolences and those of the Government and People of Abia State to the families of the deceased persons.
“The Governor strongly assures that measures have been put in place to ensure that the situation will be arrested immediately and appeals to the youths of the area and indeed, all law abiding citizens of Ohafia LGA to remain calm as Government implements measures to bring the situation to a complete stop”.