Abia government condemns criminal herdsmen, says ESN attacks not the solution

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has condemned the alleged criminal activities of herdsmen in Abia State.

Ikpeazu, however, urged Abians against taking the law into their hands in their bid for justice. The call followed reported attacks on herdsmen who were said to have kidnapped residents and vandalised farms.

The attacks were reportedly carried out by the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra’s (IPOB) Eastern Security Network (ESN) on herdsmen in Isiukwuato where there have been an upsurge in kidnappings and killings.

“Abia State Government wishes to condemn in its entirety the recent destruction of farmlands by cows grazing openly in violation of extant laws of the state and Nigeria,” information commissioner John Okiyi Kalu said in a statement on Monday night.

“It also condemns, without reservations, the activities of criminal herdsmen suspected to have masterminded recent brazen kidnap of innocent citizens around Abia North Senatorial Zone of the State.

“Consequently, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed security agents in the state to bring to justice all those involved in the criminal activities.

“Government also frowns seriously at the wanton destruction of cows by yet to be identified individuals whose aim is to exacerbate already existing tensions.

“Government has fully activated all relevant components of the state security architecture to ensure the safety of lives and property of law abiding citizens, residents and visitors to the state.

“We, therefore, call on the people to go about their legitimate businesses without fear as government is on top of the situation and will spare nothing in protecting Abians.”