The paramount ruler of Abiriba Kingdom in Abia State, Kalu Ogbu IV, has apologised to the Gombe State government over last week’s attack on Abia Cattle Market.
The monarch tendered the apology Monday in Gombe during a courtesy call on the Gombe Deputy Governor, Dr Manassah Daniel Jatau.
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Assailants, on February 18, invaded the cattle market in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State and killed eight traders and some of their cows.
Ogbu said Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu condemned the incident, describing it as “sad and deeply regrettable.”
The traditional ruler added that the visit was to express their sympathy and condolence to the people and government of Gombe State over the unfortunate incident, “which is the handiwork of misguided and ill-advised fellows.”
He assured that the Abia State government was working to ensure that all those involved in the attack were arrested and prosecuted.
According to him, a new location had been given to the traders to do their business comfortably with adequate provision of security and other social amenities.
He commended the leadership of the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers Association of Nigeria (AUFCDN) for showing strong leadership to avert any retaliation.
In his response, the Deputy Governor, Dr Manassah Daniel Jatau, said the meeting was to “maintain the bridge so that it does not collapse,” and solicited collective efforts to promote peaceful coexistence.
The Acting National President of the (AUFCDN), Alhaji Yahuza Yusuf commended Governor Ikpeazu for his response following the attack.
He said the governor has responded to their request to relocate the market to a safer place and also supported the traders who lost their cows.
He, however, called on the governor to redeem his pledge of paying N2 million each to the families of the deceased.
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