By Ikemefuna Asika
Major stakeholders in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State have called for peaceful coexistence among residents of Awka.
They made the call after an urgent meeting involving Major stakeholders in Awka to find lasting solution to crimes and gun violence in city.
Addressing newsmen shortly after the meeting, the Managing Director of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) Mr. Ossy Onuko said the incidences of gun related violence within the State Capital was totally condemnable.
He maintained that whatever might be the reason for such act should be jetissoned.
He maintained that illegal firearms possession was a crime that attracts heavy penalty.
According to him, “finding lasting solution to the security challenges was necessary as the elected and appointed officers owe it as a duty to the people to keep Awka safe not just for residents but for thousands of investors tripping into the city”, he said.
He reiterated that Governor Soludo’s efforts to reposition and regenerate the city cannot be jeopardized by the activities of very few misguided individuals who wants to reap where they did not sow.
Onuko who appealed passionately to youths engaging in such criminality to turn a new leave and embrace peace as there was no future in violent crime, described Awka as the most industrious city in South East.
The member representing Awka South I constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly, Comrade Nigeria Henry Mbachu called for re-orientation of youths through the National Orientation Agency while suggesting holistic approach of ending crimes.
The Transition Committee Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area Mr. Anagor ThankGod JP, who highlighted the severity of the gun problem in Awka, urged perpetrators to embrace peace for the greater good of the community.
It will be recalled that not less than 20 youths have been killed in Akwa since the last Easter celebration in violent circumstances.
