Governors of the South East states have said criminal elements were responsible for the violent crimes and worsening insecurity in the region.
The Chairman of the Southeast Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, made this known while addressing journalists after the forum’s meeting in Enugu on Thursday.
Uzodinma said agitators calling for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, are not responsible for the killings and attacks in the region as been speculated.
He said: “I don’t know how you relate the name of Nnamdi Kanu with the violence, kidnappings, beheading of human beings, the burning down of homes and palaces of traditional rulers to Nnamdi Kanu.
“But, if you have any evidence, please, you may wish to approach us after this session.
“We wish to state categorically that the perpetrators of the insecurity in our region and their sponsors are criminals and should not be seen as legitimate agitators.
“Therefore, upon arrest, they should be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the land.”
Uzodinma said the forum firmly resolved to fight insecurity decisively in the region individually and collectively, in partnership with the federal government and other stakeholders.
According to Uzodimma, plans are on the way to relaunch Ebubeagu in the region and the forum is working in partnership with the federal government to deal with the insecurity in the region.
He said, “That has to do with the details of the programme of the forum of governors working in partnership with the federal government to deal with the insecurity in the region. When the details are out, we will let you know”
