Abia state Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has assured the people of kidnap prone areas of Umunneochi in Abia State, South East Nigeria of their safety.
The Nkwoagu, Leru, Lomara, Nneato axis has been a hot bed of kidnapping of high profile persons and students of the Abia State University, Uturu.
The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Samuel Kanu-Uche and other top church officials travelling with him were the latest victims, with a 100 million Naira ransom allegedly paid to secure their release.
These had sparked public out cry with youths of the area taking to the streets of the community to register their anger.
At a meeting with the leaders of the communities, Governor Ikpeazu gave his words that the State government would stamp out all forms of criminality in the area.
He expressed concern that the level of insecurity along the Umunneochi axis of the State had become a source of embarrassment to government.
The Governor restated that the ban of open grazing was still in force, and directed the leaders of Umunneochi Local Government Area to monitor various flashpoints in the areas.
Governor Ikpeazu was on a fact finding mission to the affected areas and also visited the spot where the Methodist Prelate was kidnapped.
(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
