The Governors of the South-East have denounced the purported assassination of two policemen by alleged members of the Indigenous People of Biafra who captured the incident on camera.
The governors stated that the validity of the film will be determined, noting that similar incidents have occurred outside Nigeria in the past when videos were exposed to forensic scrutiny.
They did, however, commit to see that justice is served in this case.
This was stated in a statement issued by Ebonyi State Governor and Chairman of the South East Governors’ Forum, David Umahi, during a virtual emergency meeting on Tuesday.
The statement stated in part, “We strongly condemn the video clip and write-up we saw in several social and print media outlets alleging that two police officers were killed and their heads severed by youngsters claiming to be members of IPOB/ESN.
“We have agreed to collaborate with security agencies to ascertain the veracity of this video/report and, if proved to be genuine, to apprehend the offenders by all means necessary to bring them to justice.
“We are aware of similar recordings in the past that were subjected to forensic examination and revealed to have taken place outside Nigeria.
“We guarantee Nigerians, particularly the police community, that we would not rest until this situation is resolved.”
“We are aware that insecurity and murders in the South East have spread beyond IPOB/ESN, as any criminal may easily conceal themselves behind such a moniker and perpetrate crimes.
“We are resolved to do all possible to safeguard our citizens’ lives and property. Our youth are encouraged to take advantage of our Governors’ many empowerment and agricultural programs in order to improve their life.
“With regards to young agitation, we are examining the work of Ohaneze Ndigbo committees and will shortly convene a bigger stakeholders’ meeting to discuss the issue.
“All concerns connected to the agitation and its aftermath are better resolved democratically and via discussion, and we appreciate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR – for considering a political solution to this matter. He has established himself as a responsible father who listens to his children.
“We encourage our citizens to resume Monday business as usual, since we have assured them of adequate security.
“We appreciate the commitment of all our security services to safeguarding the lives and property of our people in the South East and assure them of our continuous assistance as they carry out their responsibilities.”
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