The Abia state government has reacted to the Tuesday attack on traders at the new cattle market located in Omumauzor, Ukwa West Local Government Area of the state.
The incident which happened at about 11:35pm, claimed the lives of at least 8 persons while others sustained various degrees of injury.
According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Barr. Eze Chikamnayo, the state government led by Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu had promptly mobilized security agencies to secure lives and properties on receiving a distress call that night from Omumauzor abattoir .
The government regretted the attack, assuring that it is working to apprehend the perpetrators and also provide succour to the affected families.
“We are shocked and saddened by this mindless and barbaric act of violence that claimed the lives of about 8 innocent citizens of our great country and we totally condemn this dastardly act together with it’s wicked perpetrators.
“We are working assiduously to provide succour to the families of the victims. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical attention. We have equally started the immediate relocation of the traders while working out compensation for lost properties. We shall leave no stone unturned to ensure that the evil perpetrators are brought to justice” the statement read in part.
The Abia state government urged it’s citizens to remain law abiding and report suspicious movement to the appropriate authorities.
Meanwhile, a team made up of the Chief of Staff to the governor, Prof. ACB Agbazuere, Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Commissioner for Homeland Security, Chief Sopuruchi Bekee, Executive Chairman of Ukwa West LGA, Chief Okey Kanu, the state commissioner of police, CO Janet Agbede arrived the scene in the early hours of Wednesday, February 16,2022.
