By Nelson Utip
Invaders from Ukwa community in Cross River State have stormed Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia state, killing one Mrs Blessing Kalu Elem and injuring several others while others seek refuge in the bushes and neighbouring villages.
The attack was as a result of dispute over a piece of land in Isu said to be rich in limestones and other natural resources, according to the President General of Isu, Nicholas Kalu. He accused the Ukwa people of Cross River of attempting to take over the land from the rightful owners, Isu, he regretted that previous administrations could not resolve the boundary crisis between his people and their Cross River neighbours, but was full of praises for Governor Alex Otti for his efforts in developing Isu
Governor Alex Otti while on a fact finding visit to the affected community reaffirmed his administration’s determination to protected the lives and properties of its citizens and residents.
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Governor Otti condoled the family of the deceased, Mrs. Blessing Kalu Elem, saying that he came to ascertain the extent of damage and empathize with the entire community following the invasion of the community.
Represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, Otti ordered the immediate movement of gunshot victims to a Specialist Hospital for proper medical attention on the bill of The State Government.
“I have communicated with the government of Cross River State to call her people to order and stop further infiltration.
“The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, is saddened over this obnoxious act and enjoins you to remain calm as the government is working hand in glove with the security agencies to ensure that checkpoints are mounted at all entry points into Isu, as well as constitute a patrol team.
His condolences are with you.” The Deputy Governor said while assuring Isu community of his Government’s resolve to show presence in the long-forgotten area by the previous administrations, by fixing access roads to boundaries in Isu community up to the beach which serves a natural boundary feature, as well as other areas having inter-state boundary issues across the State.
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Emetu commended the traditional ruler of Isu Autonomous Community, HRH, Eze Augustine Igwe, President General of Obieze and leaders of Obieze and Isu communities for their maturity in handling the incident.
Eze Augustine Igwe, the Traditional Ruler of Isu Autonomous Community thanked the Governor for his rapid response, appealing for sustained security in the area by building a security camp along the Isu road leading to the beach.
The Deputy Governor Emetu was later joined by the Commissioner of Police, Abia State, Mr. Kenechukwu Onwuemelie with his team and a medical team.
