Residents of Ibom, Arochukwu in Abia State have urged the state government to address rising insecurity in their community, which they attribute to drug abuse and cult-related activities.
His Royal Highness Mazi Amos Okoro, the traditional ruler of Ibom Etiti and Ibom Isii kindreds, announced on Wednesday that the community is seeking justice for two residents, Mr. Kboy Okereke and Master Chinedum Ezuma, allegedly murdered by suspected cultists.
HRM Okoro disclosed that suspected criminal activities in the area began before his coronation on January 26, following the removal of his predecessor, Mazi Kanu Nwa-Kanu.
He emphasized that controlling the sale and use of illegal drugs in the area would significantly reduce cultism and criminal activities, restoring peace and security to the community.
“My heart aches, as both the oppressed and the oppressors are my own people. How heartbreaking it is that our children are killed without provocation by those who should be part of their community.
“The attack and subsequent death of Mazi Okereke and Master Ukwu, killed in front of his twin brother by members of their own community, was deeply tragic.
“Cultism and violent acts have become so widespread that none of us, including myself, feel safe. The community is plagued by frequent thefts and rape incidents, which have become disturbingly common”, He stated.
The traditional ruler also mentioned that this escalating crime wave has instilled a constant sense of fear among the residents, who are now uncertain about their safety and the protection of their property.
He highlighted that the growing insecurity has left everyone in the community feeling vulnerable and desperate for a solution to restore peace and order.
“What we seek is justice, which has yet to be delivered, despite the fact that all those affected are my people. The law is never blind to wrongdoing. We are confident that justice will prevail if the roots of cultism and lawlessness are destroyed, and their sponsors are apprehended and held accountable, regardless of their status.”
When contacted, the families of the deceased confirmed the incidents and demanded justice.
They revealed that the killings had been reported to the police and expressed hope that the authorities would take swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice.
