Emetu Distances Self from Okon Violence, Calls for Community Dialogue

Emetu Distances Self from Okon Violence, Calls for Community Dialogue

The Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State has dismissed allegations linking the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, to the recent outbreak of violence in Okon village, Ohafia Local Government Area, describing the claims as unfounded and misleading.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, the office clarified that Engr. Emetu has neither interest nor involvement in the internal affairs of Okon community and remains firmly committed to promoting peace and stability across Abia State.

The statement emphasized that the selection of village heads in Ohafia is strictly a traditional matter governed by long-established customs and practices, and therefore falls outside the authority or influence of the Deputy Governor.

Condemning the violent attacks on homes and the destruction of property in the community, Engr. Emetu called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and allow security agencies to conduct thorough investigations aimed at identifying, arresting, and prosecuting those responsible for the unrest.

According to the statement, the Ohafia Council of Monarchs has assumed responsibility for resolving the crisis, while victims who sustained injuries during the violence are currently receiving medical treatment at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia, following the Deputy Governor’s intervention.

The Deputy Governor further appealed to members of the Okon community to embrace dialogue and lawful means in addressing their grievances, cautioning against attempts to drag his name into the crisis for ulterior motives.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of law, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively toward restoring calm and stability in the affected area.