The Governors of South East geo-political zone in Nigeria on Sunday raised alarm over the rising insecurity in the region.
Briefing journalists after a closed-door meeting in Government House Enugu, Engr. Umahi, Governor of Ebonyi state/ Chairman of the South East Governor’s Forum disclosed, “The South East Governors decry the state of insecurity in the region; economic activities in the zone have come to a halt while kidnapping and wanton killing have become the order of the day.”
“To protect our people, we the governors have agreed to set up a 24-hour joint patrol in all major highways within the South East, especially during the Christmas season.”
They further call on the Federal Government for assistance in providing security in the zone ahead of the 2023 general elections.
Clarifying their involvement in formation of the Eastern Security Network, ESN, the forum denied the allegation; “South East Governors Forum jointly formed Ebubeagu and Forest Guards not ESN. So, it is not correct for any person to allude to the fact that South East governors created ESN,” Governor Umahi stated.
Aside security, the ongoing flood menace was a huge concern to the Governors who unanimously pledged to raise funds to assist the flood victims in the zone.
Pushing for a permanent solution to avoid reoccurrence of flooding in the zone and the nation, the Governors plead with the Federal Government to expedite action in the dredging of rivers in the South East; this move they said will forestall future destruction of houses, farmlands and properties by flood.
They further request, “The Federal Government should come to the aid of the victims in terms of rehabilitation of the internally displaced persons.”
Although this meeting was the first since the election of the Anambra state Governor, Charles Soludo, he was absent; his deputy Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim represented him.
Other Governors in attendance are Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Enugu State Governor; Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State; Ebonyi State Governor/Chairman of the South East Governors Forum, Engr. David Umahi; and Deputy Governor of Imo state, Prof. Placid Njoku.
- Abusing The Nation’s Legal Tender Now Comes With Severe Consequences - April 24, 2024
- Enugu Lawmakers Amending Criminal Code Lawto Criminalize Ransom Payment - April 24, 2024
- Enugu Govt. Reveals Plan For Generating Plants At NERC Townhall Meeting - April 19, 2024
