Abia State Governor, Alex Otti.
In the Umunneochi Local Government Area of the state, the Abia State Government has uncovered more than 50 decomposing corpses, in addition to over 20 headless bodies and numerous human skeletons scattered throughout the Lokpanta Cattle Market vicinity.
During his monthly media interaction at Government House, Umuahia on Monday, Governor Alex Otti revealed these developments. He reassured the public of his administration’s unwavering commitment to addressing security concerns resolutely, regardless of whose interests may be affected.
Governor Otti emphasized that the crackdown on the Lokpanta Cattle Market was prompted by issues related to prostitution, drug trafficking, and various criminal activities, which had also led to the demolition of certain brothels in Umunneochi.
Furthermore, the governor declared that the Lokpanta market is set to transition into a daily marketplace, operating from 6 am to 6 pm.
He announced that the market’s transformation into a comprehensive marketplace would include designated areas for cattle traders and various other commercial enterprises.
The governor also revealed that his administration would be taking measures to secure the market by installing a protective fence around it, emphasizing the importance of enhanced security.
He pointed out that the Lokpanta area had a history of being a hotspot for kidnapping and armed robbery, which drove his administration to opt for the daily operation of the market.
He shared that, despite initial misunderstandings, a consensus was reached during a meeting with the market’s leadership, where everyone recognized the government’s decision to convert the market into a daily one for the greater benefit of all.
Otti said, “We are single-minded about rooting out insecurity in Abia State because we know that no government can succeed in the face of insecurity, violence, armed and kidnapping.”
The governor stated that electronic devices would be positioned strategically to safeguard lives and assets throughout the state. He also affirmed his administration’s determination to guarantee a wonderful Christmas for the people of Abia this year, emphasizing that, “This government will not get involved in supporting insecurity. Our devices will be installed in strategic places.”