Akwa Ibom Lawmakers Request Gov Eno Secure Immediate Release of 13 Itu Mbonuso Residents Abducted by Arochukwu Elements

Akwa Ibom Lawmakers Request Gov Eno Secure Immediate Release of 13 Itu Mbonuso Residents Abducted by Arochukwu Elements

By Ifiok Itiaba, Uyo

Members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly have passionately urged Governor Pastor Umo Eno to directly engage his Abia State counterpart and security operatives to ensure the immediate release of thirteen persons abducted from Itu Mbonuso in Ini Local Government Area, suspected to be held by individuals from Arochukwu.

The resolution came during Tuesday’s plenary following a Matter of Urgent Public Importance raised by the Member representing Ini State Constituency, Hon. Lawrence Udoide (APC).

Hon. Udoide detailed the harrowing recurring incidents where his constituents are harassed on their farms by people from the neighbouring state, stating that fear has now paralyzed his people who can no longer freely access their farms; he implored the House to take swift action to hasten the release of the abducted individuals.

Condemning the attack, the Member Representing Nsit Ibom State Constituency, Hon. Eric Akpan (APC), denounced the brazen invasion by Arochukwu elements, declaring “Arochukwu invading Itu Mbonuso is unacceptable.”

In his words, “The primary aim of government is the security of lives. Our government must interface with the Abia State Government. Our people have a right to live freely.”

On his part, Hon. Moses Essien who represents Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, noted “Barely three months ago, we had the same issues,” stressing that “The House has a responsibility to speak out and invoke relevant sections of the law to protect our people.

“Government should be more concerned about solving these boundary disputes. The executive must understand the limits of its jurisdiction. I worry deeply about how those families are coping.”

Ruling on the matter, the Speaker of the House, Elder Udeme Otong, underscored the gravity of the situation, urging the Akwa Ibom State Government to immediately engage the Abia State Government to secure the release of the abducted persons and directed the Chairman of the House Committee on Security to liaise with Security agencies to obtain updates and ensure the prompt release of those abducted.