Abia Commissioner condemns destruction of government property during councilors’ clash

Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, has condemned the intimidation, violence, and destruction of government property in Ukwa East LGA during unrest by some councillors in the area.

The violence erupted on Tuesday during a disagreement between the legislators as debates on certain issues were ongoing, resulting in violent attacks on some members and the destruction of government property.

Reacting to the ugly development, Kanu, who is a leader of the Labour Party in Ukwa East, said that divergent opinions and robust debates are natural in a legislative environment and should not have been allowed to escalate into confrontations and violence.

“I strongly condemn, in the clearest terms, every form of violence, intimidation, destruction of government property, and any behaviour capable of bringing the name of Ukwa East Local Government and the Labour Party into disrepute,” he said.

Kanu, who called for reconciliation among the councillors, appealed for calm and restraint among the legislators and Labour Party members, saying that actions and utterances that could inflame further tension must be avoided.

He added that the leadership of the Labour Party in Ukwa East and relevant authorities are already taking necessary steps to engage all parties, investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, and restore lasting peace and harmony in the council.

The Commissioner for Information further warned against any division that could derail the vision and progress of Ukwa East LGA.