'My People Are Not Criminals' – Imo Deputy Governor

The Deputy governor of Imo state, Gerald Irona has revealed that Imo state people are not criminals, few bad eggs are making their state notorious.

Gerald disclosed this during a security summit of Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta Local Government Areas held at Oguta Civic Centre, Oguta.

He blamed the tag of criminals in referring to the people of the area on the activities of few individuals.

The deputy governor, who is a native of the area, said that “the truth is that we are not criminals. A few bad eggs are making our area notorious.

"We shall not allow them to tarnish our collective image. No one shall make us live in fear in our ancestral homes. No one will frighten and threaten us at will again. That era is gone.

It was recalled that Engr. Gerald Irona says those involved in criminal activities in the state must be made to face the law, even as he reiterated his call for youth of the state to shun every form of criminality.

The Deputy Governor gave the warning, on October 10, at the Imo State Police Headquarters during a parade of four suspected kidnappers by the State Police command.

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He said “It is very unfortunate that young people will derive pleasure in causing harm and misery to families. This is unacceptable. We shall continue to support the Police and other security agencies in the state to ensure that Imo is crime-free. We call on Imo people to shun crime. No doubt, the culprits will face the law. I shall brief His Excellency, the Governor, accordingly.”

However, Gerald disclosed that the summit is aimed at addressing security challenges in the two oil producing local government areas of the state with a view to identifying the causes of insecurity in the area and proffering possible solutions.

“The present government of Imo state identified some flashpoints. Principal among the flashpoints are Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta Local Government Areas. Co-incidentally, that is where we have the oil facilities and installations in Imo state.

“Efforts are being made to ensure a sustainable offensive against every form of criminality in the state. This summit is one of such efforts.

“Again, the provision and donation of vehicles to law enforcement agencies by ISOPADEC to aid their operations is part of the ongoing efforts towards strengthening the security of the area,” he said.