BREAKING: Nigerian Govt To Declare State Of Emergency In Imo State
A civic group, the Coalition for True Governance (CTG), has called on the Nigerian government to declare a “State of Emergency” in Imo State, South-East of Nigeria over the killing of traditional rulers in the state.
Some unknown gunmen had killed the traditional ruler of the Orsu Obodo community in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, Eze Victor Ijioma and the traditional prime minister of Mgbele community in the same Oguta LGA.
The two traditional rulers were murdered in separate attacks on Thursday by fleeing gunmen.
The group in a statement on Friday stated that the assassination of these traditional rulers was an appalling act of violence.
While speaking on Friday, the convener of the group, Chief Charles Odenigbo, said it was imperative that the Nigerian government takes immediate action to address this gruesome incident and restore peace in Oguta and across Imo State.
The coalition affirmed that Governor Hope Uzodinma had totally failed to secure the lives and property of residents in the state, while stressing that the state of emergency would provide the government with the necessary authority and resources to combat the escalating violence and restore law and order.
The group also urged the government to launch a thorough investigation into the killing of the traditional ruler in Oguta, with the aim of identifying and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The statement read in part; “The Coalition for True Governance(CTG), a leading advocate for peace, justice, and human rights, strongly condemns the heinous and barbaric killing of the traditional ruler of Orsu Obodo community in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, Eze Victor Ijioma and the traditional prime minister of Mgbele community in the same Oguta LGA.
“We, therefore, call on the Nigerian government to declare a state of emergency in Imo State. This declaration is necessary to ensure the swift deployment of security forces and the implementation of measures to prevent further loss of lives and property. The state of emergency will provide the government with the necessary authority and resources to combat the escalating violence and restore law and order.
“Governor Hope Uzodinma is a failure, he has shown times without number that he does not possess the capacity to govern and ensure the safety of life and property in the state. We need to stop this constant bloodshed.
“Furthermore, we urge the government to launch a thorough investigation into the killing of the traditional ruler in Oguta, with the aim of identifying and bringing the perpetrators to justice. It is crucial that all those involved, regardless of their position or influence, are held accountable for their actions. The government must demonstrate its commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the lives and well-being of its citizens.
“We implore the Nigerian government to prioritize community engagement, dialogue, and reconciliation initiatives in Imo State. Building trust between the government, security agencies, and the local population is essential to fostering lasting peace and stability.
“We call on the international community, particularly regional organisations and human rights bodies, to closely monitor the situation in Imo State and provide the necessary support and assistance to the Nigerian government in its efforts to restore peace and security,” the statement added.
