- Iyiowa Community Landlords and Residents Associations have staged a peaceful protest at the Anambra State Government House, Awka over alleged extortion by their hosts, the Odekpe people.
The protesters who had various placards conveying their grievances were received by the Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi.
Speaking on behalf of others, the leader of the protesters, Dr. Chukwunonso Okolie, accused the President General Odekpe community, Barrister Innocent Nwanosike, of leading over 400 thugs to destroy buildings, over 30 cars and other properties, as well as inflict bodily injuries on residents of the area recently over illegal and indiscriminate levies that do not spare even petty traders.
The protesters said many attempts to resolves matters with Odekpe people through dialogue failed and that they are no longer comfortable with responses from relevant authorities they have complained to.
They said more attacks on the residents are imminent, calling for urgent government intervention to avoid total breakdown of law and order in the area.
Contributing, the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Sunday Obinze, said they will remain peaceful and resolute in seeking government attention to their ordeal.
Addressing the protesters, the Chief of Staff to Governor Soludo, Mr. Ezeajughi, thanked them for being civil in the face of provocation, adding that government will be serious in dealing with the ugly situation.
He re-emphasized Soludo administration’s determination to enthrone security, law and order in the state, and assured that the President General will be invited to make explanations on the development.