CROSSRIVER: Gov. Otu Vows To End Criminal Activities, Mandate Security Agencies To implore Resources at their Disposal

PRESS STATEMENT

…to stop the menace and ensure all hostages are freed and returned safely to their families.

This the executive Governor of Crossriver state made clear in his statement during his address to the press.

His statement reads, “Gentlemen of the press, It is with a high sense of responsibility and concern for the security and wellbeing of our citizenry that I address you this morning. I am particularly concerned about the high incidence of kidnapping, abduction and other acts that are committed for the purpose of collecting ransom including actions that prevent people from going about their legitimate business.

“Since my assumption of office, my Administration has been focused on engaging all strata of society in a productive manner with the aim of improving income for every hardworking person particularly young people.

“But it is very sad that instead of keying into the new administration’s development strategy, a few criminal elements have resorted to making money or income while holding a gun on our heads. In their quest for this illicit wealth they have resorted to kidnapping and abduction crimes that are alien to our culture and people.

“The said elements by their actions show no love, sympathy or respect, for human life. They have suddenly made our once peaceful state to become a pariah for tourists, investors and even the ordinary people.

“I wish to State very unequivocally that enough is enough. This must stop not tomorrow but today.

“Heads of security Agencies are therefore directed to implore all resources at their disposal to ensure that this menace stops forthwith and that all hostages are freed and returned safely to their families.

“We are committed to operating within the ambit of the CROSS RIVER STATE KIDNAP (PROHIBITION) LAW which was passed by the 8th Assembly, assented to by the Governor and gazetted by the Government Printer in 2016.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the said law makes provision for various penalties that my administration is ready and willing to enforce in order to bring the reprehensible criminal activity to an end.”

Source: Hon. Sen. Pst Billionaire Bill Spokesperson Spokesman to Gov Otu