South East Governors’ Forum Condemns Deadly Attack on Soldiers in Aba

The South East Governors’ Forum has condemned the Thursday morning attack that left two soldiers dead at a checkpoint in Aba, Abia State.

The attack, which occurred at Obikabia junction, was reportedly carried out by suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as part of their efforts to enforce a sit-at-home directive meant to commemorate Biafra Day.

The assailants also burned down security patrol vehicles.

Addressing newsmen in Owerri on Thursday, Chairman of the Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, described the attack as “unfortunate.”

“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,” Uzodimma stated.

He noted that the attack would be a major setback to the ongoing peace process being pursued by the governors in collaboration with the Federal Government, security agencies, and other critical stakeholders to resolve 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,” Uzodimma added.

The governor extended his condolences to the Chief of Army Staff and the families of the soldiers who lost their lives.

He assured that efforts would be made to ensure peace in the South East, which is essential for development.

Uzodimma urged security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the attack.

He also acknowledged that people in the South East, driven by fear and memories of the past, obeyed the directive of the proscribed group.

He called on the residents, particularly those in Imo State, to find courage and trust 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.