Sen. Athan Achonu, Labour Party (LP) Candidate in the Nov. 11 governorship election in Imo, has vowed to end the killing of traditional rulers and others in the state if elected.
This is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Media, Athan Achonu Campaign Organisation, Mr Chibuike Diala, in Owerri on Monday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that other traditional rulers had been killed in the state by unidentified gunmen beginning from 2021.
Among the traditional rulers murdered were, Eze E. Duruebere of Okwudor autonomous community and Sampson Osunwa of Ihebinowerre autonomous community, both in Njaba council area f the state, killed on Oct. 19, 2021.
Also, the traditional ruler of Obudi Agwa, Eze Ignatius Asor in Oguta council area of Imo, killed on Nov. 14, 2022.
In Ezi Orsu community, Oguta council area of the state, Eze Victor Ijoma was murdered on May 25, 2023 while the traditional Prime Minister of Isiama, Mgbele community, also of Oguta LGA was murdered in his town on the same day.
Achonu, who was reacting to the recent killing of the traditional ruler of Nguru Autonomous Community in Aboh-Mbaise council area of the state, His Royal Majesty, Eze James Nnamdi, said he would address the challenge of insecurity head on if elected.
He decried the rising spate of insecurity and criminality ravaging the state, with its attendant killings and destruction of public and private property, and called on all the actors to seize fire and give peace a chance.
“It is saddening that our state has recently descended into clear anarchy, where brutes run riot without any restraint and blood is spilled on a daily basis.
“ This abominable disregard for the sanctity of human life and defilement of our cherished traditional institution is condemnable and alien to our culture and nature.
“ I commiserate with the people of Nguru, Mbaise people and the entire Imo people on this yet another unwarranted killing of our people and urge the governor to rise to the occasion and save our people,” Achonu said.
He urged Imo people to key into his ‘Take Back Imo’ agenda, as, according to him, it is the only guarantee for a safer and more prosperous Imo.
NAN recalls that the late Eze Nnamdi, popularly known as Mirioma, was killed in his palace at about 3.00pm on Monday, July 17, 2023.
According to an eye witness report, he was killed by unidentified gunmen who drove into his compound in two vehicles, dragged him out of his palace and asked him a few questions before shooting him seven times.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was confirmed dead.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Imo, ASP Henry Okoye, while confirming the development said a high powered investigation had been launched into the incident. (NAN)
