The Nigerian Army has assured the people of Akpabuyo local government area in Cross River State of its commitment to enhancing peaceful coexistence for sustainable economic activities of families in the communities.
The Commander, 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Everest Okoro gave the assurance during a meeting with traditional rulers of the different clans in the Akpabuyo local government area of Cross River State, southern Nigeria.
Brigadier General Okoro listened intently to the tales of woes narrated by some representatives of the communities at the Primary School Akwa Ikot Eyo Edem.
He warned persons engaged in violence and other criminalities to desist from their misguided ways or meet their Waterloo at the hands of the gallant and highly motivated troops of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army.
The Brigade Commander further warned that “Criminals who are not ready to turn a new leaf will be decisively dealt with and given what they deserve. The Nigerian Army troops had been given express directives to deal ruthlessly with criminals in line with extant rules of engagement and standard operating procedures during internal security operations.”
He also assured residents of the communities of the Nigerian Army’s readiness to safeguard the lives and properties of law-abiding citizens, appreciating them for their unwavering support to the Brigade in the discharge of its responsibilities.
“For us to successfully restore and maintain the peace for the good of your communities, we need your support and cooperation by providing us timely and actionable information that would enable the troops to tackle crimes and criminalities in the State.
“Let me assure you of the Brigade’s readiness to scale up patrols, checkpoints, and roadblocks amongst other kinetic and non-kinetic measures,” Brigadier General Okoro said.
He emphasised the significance of inter-agency collaboration in the conduct of effective kinetic and non-kinetic operations within the joint operating environment and commended other security agencies for their support and cooperation in fostering peace and tranquility across the state.
In a remark, the paramount ruler of Akpabuyo Etinyin Maurice Nya expressed appreciation to the Brigade Commander for the visit and interaction with the traditional rulers of the Akpabuyo local government area.
Etinnyin Nya further appreciated the commander for the support so far given to the different communities in areas around Akpabuyo, which he noted has resulted in relative peace and renewed hope for the people.
Other leaders present at the meeting were the president of the Akpabuyo Youth Council, family heads, women leaders, and residents of the community, amongst other.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
