* Directs security agencies to enforce law, order
As the Ikeji Aro annual festival kicks off, the Abia State Government has warned those it described as unscrupulous persons to desist from disrupting the peace and tranquility of the community, under any guise.
The government issued the warning against the backdrop of feelers that some group of persons, apparently aggrieved over the outcome of a kingship selection process, have been instigating disorder, thus raising tension in the ancient kingdom.
Thus, the government, through the Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu, issued the warning through a statement in Umuahia, saying:
“It has come to the attention of Abia State Government that some unscrupulous individuals who have masquerading themselves as traditional rulers in Arochukwu, Arochukwu Local Government Area are arranging to disrupt the peace and tranquility of the town.
“Government has it on good authority that these imposters are planning to use thugs and drug addicts to intimidate and harass innocent citizens of the community under the guise of a non-existent chieftaincy tussle.
“The Abia State government wishes to use this medium to warn those who are involved in these unwholesome plans, along with their sponsors, to desist from their despicable act in their own interest.
“The security agencies are hereby are hereby directed to enforce law and order in the community and ensure that those who disrupt the peace are brought to book accordingly.
“The Abia State government hereby reiterates its commitment to protect the live and property of all Abia citizens and residents at all times,” the statement added.