By DESMOND EJIBAS

The Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide has called for the removal of suspected bandits from forests in Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers.

The group also demanded the immediate release of kidnapped persons in Ipo Community in the area by the bandits.

The President-General of the organisation, Dr Godspower Onuekwa, made the call in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.

Onuekwa condemned the alleged occupation of forests by armed bandits and rising cases of kidnapping across Ikwerre communities.

He listed affected areas to include Ipo, Igwuruta, Omagwa, Omademe, Ogbakiri, Emohua and Elele.

“The bandits, armed with sophisticated weapons, have made life unbearable for our people and halted economic and farming activities,” he said.

He expressed concern that the insecurity was happening in communities hosting the Port Harcourt International Airport, citing an incident on April 8 in Ipo community where a couple was kidnapped by suspected bandits.

“Efforts by a local vigilante group to rescue the victims failed, with the attackers overpowering them and abducting their leader.

“As at now, the fate of the abducted persons remains uncertain, raising fears among residents,” he stated.

Onuekwa alleged that women had been attacked on farms, with cases of rape, maiming, and killings reported in affected communities.

“The rate of insecurity in Ikwerre land is unacceptable. These nefarious activities must stop now.

“Although we are peace-loving people, we will not fold our arms while criminal elements turn our land into a theatre of fear,” he said.

He called on the Federal Government, Rivers State Government, and security agencies to act decisively to dislodge the bandits from forests in Ikwerre communities.

He also demanded the unconditional release of abducted persons and restoration of security through sustained operations.

Onuekwa urged residents to remain clam, vigilant, and to cooperate with security agencies to restore peace in the area.

The spokesperson of the Police Command in Rivers, ASP Blessing Agabe, did not respond to enquiries on the matter.

The police image maker had earlier promised to comment on the matter but failed to do so after repeated calls and messages on her mobile phone. (NAN)