Residents of Ankpa and its environs in Kogi state have been asked to be on the alert to defend the community in event of any attack.
The National President of the Ankpa Rebirth and Community Development Association (ARCODA), AbdulMuminu Isah, made the call in a statement released on Saturday.
There have been politically motivated attacks in which some people have been killed in Kogi East recently.
Only last Thursday, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) said it has killed a suspected political thug responsible for the burning to death a People’s Democratic Party PDP woman leader in the area some time last year.
Also, violence reportedly broke out in Ejule Town in Ofu local government area of the state in which two men – an okada rider and youth leaders and a woman were killed. Houses were also set ablaze in the town and in Ankpa as well.
Isah recalled that over the past 24 hours residents of Ankpa have been gripped with palpable fear and tension a message making the rounds that there is a planned invasion targeting community and religious leaders in the town.
He said “While no public evidence supports these claims, we understand the justified fear considering the desperate measures some political actors resort to in their pursuit and retention of power.”
Isah said it was for these reasons that “we call upon all citizens of Ankpa to rise to the occasion and defend our land. This is a time that demands our unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and properties of our fellow community members.
“The people of Ankpa have never been known to be cowards, and now, more than ever, we must demonstrate our strength, courage, and determination.
The statement urged the residents to unite and ensure that no one was affected or harmed done to any one nor destruction of property before, during, and after the upcoming governorship election.
“We must place every hand on the deck and remain vigilant, working collectively to safeguard our community’s well-being. Now is the time to reinvigorate our community policing efforts, where we become each other’s keepers. If you witness harm befalling your neighbor, raise the alarm and stand together to protect one another.
Isah sent warning to both serving and retired politicians at all levels, adding that “No act should supersede the protection of our land and its interests.
“Those who, for selfish political gains, betray the interest of our community should understand that history will forever record their actions in the black book of infamy. Their generations will bear the burden of their treachery. Those with honorable family lineages must protect the honor and reputation of their parents, both living and deceased.
He described the ARCODA as an organization committed to the rebirth and community development of Ankpa, and emphasized the need for hope, unity, and collective action.
“We urge every citizen of Ankpa to remain hopeful, for it is in unity that we find strength. Let us stand shoulder to shoulder, looking out for one another and working diligently to safeguard our community from any threat.
“We call upon every stakeholder, including community leaders, religious leaders, youth associations, women’s groups, and all citizens of Ankpa, to join forces and demonstrate our resilience. By remaining vigilant and maintaining a steadfast commitment to the well-being of our community, we can overcome any challenges that come our way.”
