….as Obedient Daddy carpets Delta State Government for unleashing the military against unarmed civilians
..…One of the victims allegedly shot reveals identity
By Austin Ogwuda
Fresh facts have emerged on why the peaceful protest march staged by Abraka residents over the heightened insecurity in the area turned bloody, just as one of the victims who claimed he was actually shot has revealed his identity.
Chairman of Ethiope East Local Government Council, Hon. Augustine Ogbedegbe in a press statement on Tuesday said that “I wish to formally address the regrettable incident that occurred yesterday (Monday) in Abraka during the Anti-Kidnapping protest organized by our vibrant student community, respected Human Rights Activists and concerned Community Members.
“Reports confirmed that in the course of this demonstration, an altercation ensued between some protesters and security personnel resulting in injuries to a number of individuals.
We deeply empathize with those affected and wish them a speedy recovery.
“As your Chairman”, he went on, “I assure you that immediate steps are being taken in close collaboration with relevant security agencies to beef up surveillance and maintain law and order throughout Ethiope East.
We are committed to restoring calm and ensuring a safe, secure environment for our people.
“Let me reiterate: while we respect the right of citizens to peaceful assembly and expression, we must all eschew violence and any action that may undermine public peace.
“The Local Government is actively engaging all stakeholders, including student leaders, community representatives and security agencies to ensure that grievances are addressed responsibly and that further escalation is prevented”, the statement added.
...as Obedient Daddy carpets Delta State Government for unleashing the military against unarmed civilians
On his part, Chief Chris Biose, popularly known as Obedient Daddy, the Chairman of Delta Obedient Elders’ Council who was a Teaching Service Commissioner in the defunct Bendel State, a great Poet, Writer, Author, Public Affairs Analyst is very unhappy about the sad development about the Abraka episode.
According to him, “The action of Delta State Government in inviting the Military to attack innocent and peace-loving citizens is tantamount to active support to kidnappers and other criminals in Delta State. It is tragic”, he lamented.
… I was shot at – Protester
One Mr Omena Ibokpo had condemned the alleged shooting of the protesters including himself by the soldiers and called on the international human right community, the international court of justice, lawyers and journalists, the Nigerian Government to critically investigate the matter inorder to fish out the trigger-happy soldiers involved.
“They must not go unpunished. Government should do something in this matter by investigation”, he stated.
Photo caption: Mr Omena Ibokpo, victim of alleged shooting during Abraka protest
Credit story /pix to: The News Parrot & Oasis Magazine
