From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The member of the House of Representatives representing Ideato Federal Constituency of Imo State, Hon Ikenga Ugochinyere, has condemned the killing of no fewer than 20 persons in Umualaoma and Arondizuogu communities in the state by gunmen.
Ugochinyere, in a statement on Saturday, July 26, called on the Federal and Imo State governments to take immediate steps to protect local communities and bring those responsible for the killings to justice.
The lawmaker advocated for the establishment of a vigilante squad comprising residents, police, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the military to respond to security emergencies in communities.
He said, “I was deeply shaken this morning by the shocking news of the heartless killing in cold blood of our brothers and sisters in Umualaoma and Arondizuogu. I stand with you in this darkest hour. My heart bleeds as I mourn with the people of Umualaoma and Arondizuogu, whose loved ones were brutally murdered.
“I condemn in the strongest terms the Ideato massacre, an atrocity that has left our communities in pain and anguish. We demand justice for the victims and their families. The state and federal governments must take immediate action to protect our local communities, apprehend the perpetrators, and provide the necessary support to prevent future attacks.
“We need enhanced security measures that incorporate local intelligence gathering and seamless collaboration with our local police. This will enable us to stay one step ahead of these terrorists and safeguard our people.
“Furthermore, I strongly advocate for the establishment of a vigilante squad, comprising local residents, police, DSS, and army personnel, to respond swiftly and decisively to emergencies. This joint effort will ensure that our communities are protected and that those who seek to harm us are brought to justice.”
Ugochinyere, who vowed to ensure that the deceased get justice and that the local communities are safe, also called for financial empowerment for local government areas to enhance community security.
According to him, “Our local government area requires financial empowerment to sustain security efforts and ensure that our communities are safe and secure. This will enable us to invest in the necessary infrastructure, equipment, and personnel to prevent future attacks and respond effectively to emergencies.”
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