Governor Alex Otti has Placed N25m Bounty on Killers of Soldiers.
The Abia state government has announced a N25 million bounty for information leading to the capture of the killers of five soldiers at Obikabia Junction, Ogbor Hill, Aba.
Ejes Gist News reports that the unknown gunmen attacked a military checkpoint on Thursday, killing five soldiers, seizing their rifles, and burning two patrol vans along with the checkpoint.
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In a statement, Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja, and the Military High Command. The government pledged prayers for the fallen soldiers.
The statement read: “The Abia State Government views the events of Thursday, May 30, 2024, as a serious affront by criminal elements intent on disrupting security and peace in the state. Despite significant investments in public infrastructure to attract local and foreign investments, these criminals threaten the peace and security of our land.”
The government has offered a N25 million reward for information leading to the capture of those responsible for the killings and assured confidentiality for informants. Security forces have been directed to treat informants with the utmost confidentiality.
The statement emphasized that the state would respond appropriately to reassure citizens, investors, and friends of Abia that it is committed to bringing those responsible to justice. It also commended the professionalism of the Nigerian Army officers in their response and encouraged them to maintain restraint while performing their duties.
The government encouraged citizens to continue their daily activities without fear, stating that necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of residents and businesses. It urged individuals with information on criminal activities to promptly share it with security agencies.
“Any attempt to test the will of the government will be met with full resistance. Abia remains hospitable to law-abiding citizens and legitimate businesses while being hostile to those who threaten our peace and security,” the statement concluded.