Vandalism: Quit Now Or Prepare For Jail, Abia Deputy Governor Warns Ohafia Youths

The Deputy Governor of Abia State Engineer Ikechukwu Emetu has warned youths of Ohafia and anyone who specializes in vandalism and theft of Government and communal properties to take a bow from the unlawful and ugly business or spend Years in jail.

The Deputy Governor made this known during an interactive session with the youths and indigens of Okon -Aku community in Ohafia, Authority Micheal Ukpabi Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Deputy Governor said in a statement.

ABN TV reports that the police on Monday, confirmed that the President General of Okon-Aku community was arrested for his alleged involvement in the vandalism of the oil palm equipment.

The palm oil plantation was established in 1961 by the Eastern Region Estate Investment, EREI, during the regime of Dr. Michael Okpara, as the premier of defunct Eastern region.

According to the statement, investigations revealed that the act of vandalism was masterminded by the President General of Okon Development Union, Mr. Nmecha Ume in connivance with other youth leaders of the community.

It reads further, “However, in the process of conveying the stolen materials, a tip off from the village hunters got to the knowledge of the deputy governor who immediately called the DPO of Ohafia Division to mobilize his men which led to the arrest of the criminals.

“Deputy Governor Emetu Lamented that such act is not only shameful but disgusting, for a community leader to mastermind the vandalism and sales for peanut of Government or Community owned property. He disclosed that arrangements and plans were already in top gear by the present government under the leadership of Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR to revamp the oil settlement to creat employment for the youths and generate revenue for the State.

“Speaking to newsmen, a notable community leader and renowned Industrialist, who is the Managing Director of Task International Technical limited the past president general of ODU High Chief Ndukwe Iko expressed disappointment over the heinous crime perpetrated by the present PG who is supposed to protect the common wealth of the community. He advised anyone who conceives such idea to vandalize, loot and sale property to desist forthwith. He pleaded with the Government to tamper Justice with mercy while promising to work hand in glove with relevant authorities to ensure a soft resolution of the matter towards lasting peace and unity in the community.

“High Chief Ndukwe Iko thanked the Deputy Governor for his swift action and contact to the Ohafia DPO which led to the interception and arrest of the criminals. He also expressed gratitude to the men of the Police for their rapid response.”