Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu of Abia State sent a strong warning to young people vandalizing and stealing public and government property in Ohafia and throughout the state, threatening to put an end to their illegal actions or risk a lengthy prison sentence.
This warning was given during a conversation with young people living in the Okon-Aku community in Ohafia in response to a vandalism incident that occurred recently at the Eastern Region Estate Investment (EREI), where tanks and processing mills were disassembled and sold illegally.
The palm oil plantation was historically significant and was founded in 1961 by the Eastern Region Estate Investment (EREI) under the direction of Dr. Michael Okpara.
Emetu called it sad and repugnant that a community leader was involved in planning the damage and selling of public and government properties for little profit.
In addition, Emetu disclosed that the administration of Governor Alex Otti was aggressively attempting to revitalize the oil settlement with the goal of generating jobs for young people and increasing state revenue.
Former Okon Development Union President General Ndukwe Iko expressed his unhappiness with the state of affairs and urged anyone considering selling or damaging government property to immediately stop.
The President General of Okon-Aku community was arrested recently, according to sources, for his alleged involvement in the damage of oil palm equipment. This arrest highlights the seriousness with which the authorities are handling criminal activity of this kind.
