The member representing Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, has appealed to residents of the federal constituency to embrace peace and unity, amidst the eruption of tensions and violence in Eket, Esit Eket and Ibeno Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State, for development to thrive.
The National Assemblyman, who made this known on Wednesday in a press release he signed and made available to newsmen in Uyo, said though the event “has led to the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of properties, such avoidable acts of violence only deepen wounds and sow seeds of discord among our people.”
He urged all parties involved to “co-operate fully with the authorities in their commendable efforts to de-escalate the ugly situation and ensure the safety of all citizens living in or passing through the Federal Constituency.”
Hon. Etteh said “This solemn appeal is made in recognition of the critical importance of harmony and solidarity in fostering development and progress. We must, as a people, against all odds and provocations, attach greater importance to lawful and peaceful coexistence and mutual respect for one another, ancestral origins notwithstanding. The inciting comments and publications which have heightened tensions leading to disruptions to the daily lives of the ordinary people of our Federal Constituency were most unnecessary and highly regrettable. We can speak and do better than we have done in this unfortunate situation.”
He lauded the Governor Umo Eno for his “timely intervention and prioritising the safety of lives and property. It is unimaginable what would have happened had His Excellency not intervened at the time and in the decisive manner that he graciously did. Thank you, Your Excellency, for exhibiting that you are a father to all.”
The national lawmaker implored “all parties involved in this avertable crisis of conscience to give premium to dialogue in conflict resolutions as violence only begets more violence and serves to widen the divide between us. I particularly urge our community leaders and major stakeholders of the Federal Constituency to exercise utmost restraint in their contemplation of either further acts of aggression or retribution, particularly as the bone of contention in this crisis is sub judice or pending resolution by the Federal High Court, Uyo Judicial Division.”
Hon. Etteh further prayed God “provide us all the opportunity to rebuild trust, strengthen our bonds, and chart a course towards sustainable development and prosperity for our Federal Constituency vis-à-vis Akwa Ibom State.”
