IPDI condemns killing of soldiers, abduction of expatriates, promise support to unmask perpetrators
By Ndu Samuel
The Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative (IPDI) have condemned the killing of four soldiers and abduction of four expatriates at Agge river in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State by yet to be identified gun men.
The group through a release issued on Monday by its national president Austin Ozobo, a copy of which was sent to The Liberator Newspaper described the killing as barbaric.
Ozobo said ”killing innocent soldiers is criminal. Abduction of oil workers for ransom is also a criminal offence. We condemn it in a strong term.”
”We are not at war, at no point should soldiers be killed. This is unacceptable. Ijaw communities in that area condemn the barbaric act of such miscreants. We will not hide useful information as to the where about of the abductors and their criminal hideouts. ” He promised
”It is our appeal that the military should spare innocent Agge, Aghoro, Agge Zion and Okubo Zion communities. The culprits be investigated and be arrested. No innocent people should be punished for the sins of some group of criminals.”
”We sympathize with the families of the slain soldiers and Nigerian Military. We will assist in information sharing. Those that will be found guilty should be made to face the music of the law.”
”It is our appeal no Community should be invaded as regards of this barbaric attacks. The criminals should be spotted out in such a way that it will not affect innoncent residents of communities such criminals may come from.
I appeal that despite the idiotic attacks, the military should remain lawful.”
”We want the military, other security agencies and community leaders of the area where the dastardly act is carried out to swing into action with a view of bringing perpetrators to book without further delay.”
