Abia state governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.
Abia State Government on Wednesday stopped a planned coronation of an Emir in Aba with a warning to those behind the plot to stop or face the law.
This follows reports that the northern community in Aba was preparing to coronate one Sarki Shehu Bello II as Emir of a non-existent Aba Emirate Council, according to The Tribune.
However, the date, venue, and time of the said coronation were not disclosed.
In a statement, Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Chris Ezem who noted that the state government's attention was drawn to the proposed coronation warned that the move was illegal, "without recourse to the government," and could cause a breakdown of law and order in the state.
According to the statement, “Government wishes to warn all involved in this unauthorized and illegal coronation to stop forthwith or be prepared to face the full weight of the law”.
The government directed that the proposed unlawful coronation be canceled immediately as the said Aba Emirate Council does not exist in the state.
“Government, hereby, directs immediate cancellation of the proposed illegal coronation, as there is nothing like Aba Emirate Council in the state.
"Government warns residents in the state, especially those residents in Aba, to be law-abiding.
“Law enforcement agents have been directed to swing into action and ensure that no such event, which is capable of breaching existing peace in the state takes place in Aba or any part of the state,” the statement said.
The Sun reports that there was an unconfirmed account that the state government has invited the “Emir” Sarki Shehu Bello II for questioning.
Plot to attack banks.
The Abia state government also said that some criminals were imported into the state to attack banks and filling stations and cause public disorder.
Consequently, the SSG, Chris Ezem said “all law enforcement agencies are directed to be on alert to apprehend and disperse all illegal gatherings designed to breach the existing peace in the State”.
While asking parents to rein in their wards, the state government also urged all banks in the state to ensure that both old and new Naira notes are readily available to customers.
“Government further directs parents to warn their children to avoid any form of demonstration and illegal gatherings as security Agents have been directed to arrest and prosecute offenders.”
Politics and Opinion.
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