A woman, Mrs Blessing Kalu Elem has been killed in Isu community, Arochukwu LGA of Abia State by invaders allegedly from Ukwa community, Cross River State.
Some other indigenes of Isu are also presently battling for life after being shot by the Ukwa people, while many villagers have also taken refuge in bushes or fled to neighboring villages for protection.
The attack by the Ukwa people was sparked by a land in Isu, Abia State, which is rich in limestones and other natural resources, according to the President General of Isu, Nicholas Kalu, who also accused the Ukwa people of Cross River of attempting to seize the land from the rightful owners, Isu.
Kalu regretted that previous administrations could not resolve the boundary crisis between his people and their Cross River neighbours, but thanked Governor Alex Otti for his efforts in developing Isu.
In a message during his visit to the devastated community, Governor Alex Otti said that his administration was conscious of protecting the lives and properties of its citizens and residents.
He 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.
Otti, who was represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, ordered the immediate transfer of scores of gunshot victims to a specialist hospital for proper medical attention with attendant bills to be fully paid by 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,” he said.
He assured Isu community of Abia State 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.
He 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 painful situation.
The traditional ruler of Isu autonomous community, Eze Augustine Igwe, thanked the Governor for his prompt visit and appealed for sustained security in the area by building a security camp along the Isu road leading to the beach.
The Governor’s representative was later joined by the Commissioner of Police, Abia State, Mr. Kenechukwu Onwuemelie with his team and a medical team.
Tears in Abia community as alleged invaders from Cross River kill woman, injure others