The member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Uko Nkole, has allayed the fears of the people of Ohafia over rumours that the Army is planning a night raid on the town, to randomly kill the youths.
According to him, the news is an attempt to sow seeds of discord between the military and the people of the town.
The lawmaker said: “I wish to state that the broadcast is fake news and an attempt to engage in scaremongering and sow seeds of discord between the military and people of Ohafia.
“The Commandant of the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army stationed at Ohafia has assured me that there is no basis for such an allegation as his men are solely concerned with maintaining peace in their area of jurisdiction including Ohafia where their barracks is located.
“I understand that due to the unfortunate incident of yesterday which led to the demise of a youth and the attendant chaos it precipitated, there has been ill will among the people of the area against security agencies but I urge citizens to go about their lawful endeavours without fear of harassment.”
A young man – Ifeanyi Arunsi – was killed at Ohafia by a policeman on Sunday.
Reports have it that trouble started when a policeman, who was in company with two of his colleagues, hit a vehicle offloading beverages in the area.
In the ensuing argument, one of them went for his gun and shot Arunsi, who later died while receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia.
When news of his death reached the community, youths of the area reportedly went on rampage, burning the police station, the DPO’s residence, Magistrate Court and police quarters.
The Commissioner of Police in Abia, Mr. Ene Okon, said that the policeman, who killed Arunsi, acted under the influence of alcohol.
He has since been detained, awaiting arraignment after interrogation.