The Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr. Thomas Bariere, has condemned the alleged abduction of a middle-aged man from Yeghe community, reportedly by suspected individuals from neighbouring Uegwere community.
Bariere described the incident as unfortunate and unacceptable, particularly amid ongoing efforts by traditional rulers, community leaders, the KAGOTE President and other stakeholders to restore peace and stability across Ogoniland.
In a statement, the council chairman said he had mobilised security operatives in collaboration with relevant security agencies to secure the victim’s release and arrest those responsible.
He said, “Let me, for the records, very strongly condemn the abduction of a young man from Yeghe community. It is alleged that people from Uegwere carried out the act. We have mobilised the entire security apparatus in collaboration with the local government to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and that the young man is released.”
The chairman also called on the leadership and residents of Uegwere community to conduct a thorough search across the area to facilitate the safe release of the victim.
He stressed that merely denying involvement in the incident was insufficient, urging the community to demonstrate its commitment to peace through active cooperation with security agencies.
Bariere said, “We are saying that the people of Uegwere must do everything within their reach to ensure that the young man who was abducted is released. It is not enough to say that you are not aware. Nobody will support what is not correct.”
He further appealed to residents of Yeghe community to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding, assuring them that a thorough investigation would be conducted and everyone found culpable brought to justice.
The council chairman noted that both communities had previously demonstrated cooperation with the ongoing peace process, describing the reported abduction as a setback to efforts to sustain peaceful coexistence.
He challenged Uegwere residents to demonstrate their innocence by cooperating with security operatives to ensure that those behind the incident are identified and apprehended.
Bariere reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining law and order, and safeguarding the ongoing peace-building efforts across Khana and Ogoniland.
He warned that the council would not allow individuals to undermine efforts by traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders to restore lasting peace in the area.
