Senator begs Nigerian Army not to retaliate over killing of Soldiers at checkpoint – Crime Channels
Senator begs Nigerian Army not to retaliate over killing of Soldiers at checkpoint
The lawmaker representing Abia Central in the National Assembly, Senator Austin Akobundu, has called on the Nigerian Army to exercise restraint and avoid any reprisal actions following a deadly attack on a military checkpoint at Ekenobizi on the Umuahia-Mbaise road.
The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, resulted in the tragic deaths of two soldiers, according to military sources.
A retired Colonel in the Army, Senator Akobundu made his remarks during a press conference in Umuahia, where he also took the opportunity to present his legislative achievements.
He condemned the attack in the strongest terms, describing it as a barbaric assault on security personnel who were simply performing their duties.
He emphasised the need for calm, given the rising tensions in the area, particularly in Ekenobizi and surrounding communities, which have been deserted by residents fearing possible reprisals.
Security forces have diverted traffic on the Umuahia-Mbaise road since the incident.
The Senator acknowledged the efforts of the state government, which has already begun working closely with military authorities to identify those responsible for the attack. Despite the gravity of the situation, Senator Akobundu expressed confidence that the military would refrain from retaliation against innocent civilians, noting that such actions would only escalate the already volatile situation.
In addition to addressing the security issue, Senator Akobundu highlighted his legislative accomplishments over the past year.
He pointed to his sponsorship of several key bills, including one for the establishment of an Institute of Information and Communications Technology in Umuahia North, another for the creation of a Federal College of Health Technology in Ikwuano, and a bill for the establishment of the National Sports University in Nsulu, which has already passed its first reading in the Senate.
