Catholic Bishop blames insecurity in Akws on collapse in Nigeria’s security system
The Catholic Bishop of Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Dr Camillus R. Umoh has blamed the security situation in Akwa Ibom, particuarly in Essien Udim on failure in governance in Nigeria just as he commended the Council Chairman, Mr Anthony Luke for his courage and bravery in stamping out criminalities in the area.
The Catholic Bishop stated this while addressing Internally Displaced Persons from Ikot Akpan, Uwa and Ikot Afangna villages who are affected by the recent security breach in Essien Udim.
The Catholic Bishop lamented the collapse in the security systems in the country and posited that if nothing is done Nigeria might face Somalian situation.
While calling on the state and federal government to live up to their expectations by ensuring the security of lives and property of Nigeria, the Catholic Bishop described the recent security situation where security men were killed as unfortunate and sympathetic.
He lauded the Essien Udim Council boss, Mr Anthony Luke for remaining resolute and committed to the fight against criminalities in the area.
Bishop Camillus Umoh added that the Chairman has demonstrated capacity in handling the situation in the area and therefore needs encouragement and support to be able to restore sanity to the area.
According to the Catholic Bishop , the Catholic Church is ready to partner government to take care of the displaced persons, stressing that what has befallen them is rather unfortunate.
He charged youths in the area to shun violence and social vicrs and get themselves engaged in useful ventures for a better future.
In a remrak, the Essien Udim Council Chairman, Mr Anthony Luke thanked the Catholic Church and the Bishop of Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Dr Camillus R. Umoh for accommodating and caring for the displaced persons in the Catholic cathedral.
Luke who regretted the incident condoled with the families whose properties have been touched by the hoodlums and the activities of the military during the recent onslaught in the hideout of bandits in the area.
The Council boss urged the displaced persons to remain calm and law abiding as the council and the State government are working hard to ensure they return home soon.
The Chairman enjoined the people to always report hoodlums and criminal elements in their midst so that they’ll not be affected by the consequence of their activities.
He pledged his commitment to support efforts aiming at dislodging criminals who have been terrorising the area and urged the displaced persons to remain calm as governments step up the fight against insecurity in the area.
The affected communities include Ntak Ikot Akpan, Ukana Uwa, Ikot Udo Ekpat, Ikot Otu, Ikot Afangna, Nto Nsek, Ikot Abia, Ikot Ankan, Ikot Ukpong Etor, Ada Utor, Nsasak, Ikot Akpan Essiet.
The displaced persons are camped at St Ann Cathedral Ikot Ekpene, Civic Centre Atan Ikot Okoro and St Brigid Parish, Urua Akpan.
Investigation shows that over 5000 persons have been displaced from their homes.
