By Uche Amunike
Part of the residence of former Senator Frank Ibezim, who represented Okigwe South constituency, as well as the study centre of the National Open University of Nigeria, located in Ehime-Mbano in Imo State, has been set ablaze by hoodlums.
This disclosure was made through a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, on Tuesday.
The statement partly read: ‘This unfortunate incident reflects a disturbing trend of violence that undermines the safety and security of our communities. The Command stands firmly against such acts and will take all necessary measures in synergy with other security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.’
‘In response to this attack, the commissioner promptly deployed the Command’s Tactical Unit to identify and apprehend those responsible for this act of arson. Additionally, the Commissioner has instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the incident.’
He reiterated that the individuals involved in the attack will be apprehended and shall face full legal consequences, because the police are committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is served.
He also warned the public to stop the spread of false news or making inciting comments the could destroy the current peace in the states, warning that anyone found guilty of spreading false information will be dealt with accordingly.
Hear him: ‘The police in synergy with other security agencies are dedicated to maintaining peace and order, and we encourage citizens to cooperate with law enforcement efforts to safeguard our communities.’
According to a report by the PUNCH, the hoodlums struck on Monday night, setting the NOUN building ablaze, as well as the country home of Senator Frank Ibezim.
Speaking through a statement issued by Senator Frank Ibezim, he addressed some false information that was passed by the TVC news coverage, concerning his recent visit to the National Open University of Nigeria study centre, Mbano.
His words: ‘I was accompanied by the Federal Commissioner for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.’
‘First, I must clarify that the video of refugees attached to the TVC broadcast, which has caused understandable anxiety, was not filmed in Imo State. The insinuation that there is intent to settle IDPs, refugees, or migrant persons at the NOUN Nsu Centre is entirely false.’
He continued: ‘As a responsible stakeholder when I see an opportunity for our community, I must act. Obviously, there are mischief-makers who aim to distort my genuine intentions. So, for the purpose of clarity, let me set the record straight as follows: NOUN Nsu is a federal, multi-disciplinary educational institution, open to qualified applicants from across Nigeria and beyond, just like all other federal institutions in the country.’
‘This is the third agency of government (Michael Okpara University and the Biotechnology Agency, prior), to undertake this assessment and adaptability visit for the purpose of evaluating the facilities for training.’
‘We believe that if the training facilities meet their requirements, we would be pleased to have these agencies collaborate with NOUN Nsu to train qualifying candidates.’
‘While it is understandable that the visiting agency’s name included “refugees,” this does not encompass their full mandate. They also work to equip communities with the necessary skills through integrative programs. The agency is not seeking to resettle or relocate any refugees. They aim to use the existing facilities to train eligible individuals from time to time.’
He reiterated: ‘As I stated in the NTA News coverage, it is crucial for the government to focus on utilizing existing government infrastructure completed in the last administration instead of constructing new ones, especially in the face of scarce resources and the hardships faced by our citizens.’
‘For emphasis, I must restate that there are no plans to settle IDPs, Refugees or Migrant persons at the National Open University Centre, Nsu, Ehime Mbano LGA. Any such claim is categorically false. I will never be part of such a plan. The plan is for skills training for our vulnerable young people from the South East,’ he concluded.
