[Mhiz Rebecca]

Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia state said on
Thursday September 14 that soldiers would be
withdrawn from the streets of Umuahia, the state
capital, and Aba, its commercial nerve centre, by
Friday September 15.
NAIJ.com gathered that Ikpeazu made this known at
Government House, Umuahia, while reacting to the
security situation in the state.
He said the situation in the past few days, which led
to the deployment of soldiers ahead of `Operation
Python Dance II’, a military exercise by the
Nigerian Army, had generated great concerns to
both the government and the people.
“I will also be meeting the President and Commander-in-
Chief of the Armed Forces, President Muhammadu
Buhari, to discuss possible ways of relaxing Operation
Python Dance II in the state for now”, he said.
He added that the withdrawal would not affect pre-
existing military checkpoints at various locations in
the state and warned mischief makers to stay away
from Abia, warning that agitations and protests
would not be tolerated.
“Mischief makers who want to use Abia as their base,
let me announce to you that henceforth, Abia will be too
hot for you to carry out your wicked acts.
“The state government will work with security agents to
ensure the protection of lives and property without fear
or favour. There will be no hiding place for you.”
He also urged residents of Aba to fully observe the
current curfew in the city and ensure that they
cooperate with security agents to maintain peace
and order.
Ikpeazu said it was in the interest of the people of
Abia for peace and security to be restored, as
meaningful progress could not be achieved in an
atmosphere of violence and anarchy.
He further advised members of the public to stop
spreading rumours capable of throwing the state
into disorder, warning that anyone caught
perpetrating such acts would be dealt with
according to the law.
“I swore to protect lives and properties of all Abians
and residents and that I must do.
“I, therefore, call on all to support our efforts at
making sure that lasting peace prevails in our dear
state,” Ikpeazu added (NAN).