Abuja, Nigeria(TheGavel) – The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has strongly condemned the violent killings that occurred during the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) elections in Abuloma on September 14, 2024.

In a statement released by Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, the National Publicity Secretary of INC, the organization expressed deep shock and sorrow over the senseless loss of lives. Oyakemeagbegha emphasized that Ijaws are known for their peaceful nature and that such violence is completely unacceptable, especially within the context of an election.

“The INC calls for calm while urging the security agencies to conduct thorough investigations and apprehend the perpetrators of these heinous crimes,” Oyakemeagbegha said. “We believe that the full weight of the law must be brought to bear on anyone found culpable.”

The congress offered its condolences to the families of the victims and expressed its solidarity with the Ijaw community during this difficult time.

Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation into the matter. The police commissioner has ordered a full-scale crackdown to apprehend those responsible for the violence.

In a statement, the police said: “The Commissioner of Police swiftly dispatched Tactical Teams to the scene, but the perpetrators had already escaped. The commissioner has ordered a full-scale crackdown to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice. Normalcy has returned to the area, and law-abiding citizens are encouraged to continue their daily activities.”

The police are currently investigating the incident and have not yet confirmed the number of casualties.

The Ijaw National Congress and the Rivers State Police Command are both committed to ensuring that justice is served and that such violence does not occur again.(NAN)