Introduce Marine Patrols In Oku Iboku – Itu Council Boss Cries Out To FG

Following renewed attacks on the Oku Iboku people of Itu Local Government Area by gunmen, the chairman of the council, Barr. Etetim Onuk, has appealed to the Federal and State Governments to come to the aid of the fishing community to foreclose further loss of lives and property.

While condemning what he described as “incessant and unprovoked” attacks on the riverine communities of Oku Iboku, Ayadehe and Mbiabo clans, Onuk appealed to the Federal Government to beef up security in creeks by introducing a 24-hour military and police marine patrol along the waterways bordering the affected communities.

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He said a situation where armed marauders invade from the creeks, kill and maim at will is not acceptable, hence the urgent need to act so as to complement the efforts of the military and other security agents stationed on land.

While commending the Akwa Ibom governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, for his efforts towards ending the protracted crisis, the Itu Council boss lamented the huge losses the people suffer whenever this happens and condoled with the families of the slain fishermen and farmers, advising them to remain calm and ignore the urge to retaliate as the government would do all within its powers to ensure they are safe.
Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that two lives have been lost following the attacks during the early hours of Monday and Tuesday, while several persons suffered diverse degrees of injury and many still missing.