Tension has gripped the Omumauzor Community in the Ukwa West Local Government of Abia State, where unknown gunmen allegedly invaded the Abattoir Market located in the Community, leaving eight persons dead and destroying property.
The incident which was said to have occurred in the night of Tuesday has left the Community in a confused state and pensive mood.
The Abattoir Market, which was originally at Waterside, Ogbor-hill Aba, the commercial nerve centre of Abia State, was recently relocated to Umumauzor Community by the Abia State Government.
In a statement released by the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Barr. Eze Chimkamnayo, the Abia State Government, responded swiftly by mobilising the various Security Agencies to the scene to secure the lives and property of the innocent traders and fish out the assailants.
The statement reads in part:
“This was followed this morning by a high powered team made up of the Chief of Staff, Prof ACB Agbazuere, Hon Commisioner for Trade and Investment, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Honorable Commissioner for Homeland Security, Chief Sopuruchi Bekee, Executive Chairman of Ukwa West LGA, Chief Okey Kanu in company of the State Commisioner of Police, CP Janet Agbede.
“We are shocked and saddened by this mindless and barbaric act of violence that claimed the lives of about 8 innocent citizens of our great country and we totally condemn this dastardly act together with it’s wicked perpetrators.
“We are working assiduously to provide succour to the families of the victims. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention. We have equally started the immediate relocation of the traders while working out compensation for lost properties. We shall leave no stone unturned to ensure that the evil perpetrators are brought to justice.
“While waiting for the outcome of ongoing investigations by our diligent Security Forces, the Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Victor Ikpeazu together with all Abians pray for God to grant the families of victims the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“We urge all Citizens of our great Country in Abia State to remain law abiding and promptly report any suspicious movements to the appropriate authorities.”
