The apex socio-cultural organisation, Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide, has raised concerns over what it describes as the unlawful occupation of forests and a surge in kidnapping incidents across communities including Ipo, Igwuruta, Omagwa, Omademe, Ogbakiri, Emohua and Elele, allegedly by suspected bandits.
Speaking during a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Monday, the President-General of the group, Eze Godspower Onuekwa, urged the Federal Government, Rivers State Government and relevant security agencies to take immediate action to dislodge the suspected criminals from the affected areas.
He also demanded the unconditional release of the abducted commander of a local security outfit in Ipo, Collins Ohahurun, along with other victims.
Onuekwa further disclosed that the organisation’s secretariat came under attack by hoodlums last Tuesday.
According to him, the security guard on duty was restrained, while sections of the security post were vandalised and its roof damaged during the incident.
The group extended its sympathies to families of those kidnapped and appealed to Ikwerre indigenes, both at home and abroad, to remain calm but alert. It also encouraged residents to collaborate with security agencies in efforts to restore peace and ensure justice across Ikwerre land.
