The Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunny Oche, has condemned the disruptive conduct exhibited by some youths of Rijo Community following a leadership disagreement involving them and members of the community .
He made the condemnation at Utonkon when he was alerted of the crisis by the leadership of Ufia Development Association (UDA).
The LG chairman directed the deployment of security operatives to the Rijo community, with the swift intervention of the secuorty team successfully bringing the skirmishes under control and preventing a further breakdown of law and order.
He directed all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities and submit themselves to lawful processes.
Oche who described the incident as a minor squabble between kinsmen that degenerated into a serious breach of public peace said he will not tolerate any form of violence, intimidation, or self-help under the guise of leadership disputes.
He stressed that the use of force, destruction of property, and threats to public safety constitute criminal offences punishable under extant laws, and that ignorance of the law will not serve as a defence.
He particularly condemned the willful destruction of properties belonging to perceived leaders in the community, describing such actions as criminal vandalism and a direct affront to constituted authority.
Oche emphasized that youths and community leaders alike are subject to the law and must conduct themselves with restraint, maturity, and respect for due process.
“Those holding positions of trust must recognize their legal obligation to act transparently, responsibly, and in the best interest of the people they serve.”
“Leadership and communal disputes must be channeled through recognized institutions such as the Ufia Development Association (UDA) and other lawful community authorities empowered to mediate and resolve conflicts.
“Any individual or group that bypasses these structures and takes the law into their own hands will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.
Sunny Oche directed that full investigations be sustained, with a view to identifying and prosecuting all persons found to have instigated, financed, or participated in acts capable of disrupting public peace.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to apply the full weight of the law without fear or favour.
