Edith CHUKU
Paramount Ruler of Otuan Federated Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, His Royal Highness, Christopher Nana-Okoto Okoto (AKAMA VI), has condemned the alleged improvised explosive device IED, incident reportedly carried out by an indigene of the community, Pentecost Elijah.
The royal father described the incident which happened at the State Secretariat Complex in Yenagoa, as unfortunate and unacceptable.
Speaking on behalf of the council of chiefs, community development committee (CDC), youth body and women of the community, the paramount ruler, emphasized that Otuan community does not condone violence or any act capable of disrupting public peace and order.
He dissociated the community from the alleged action and called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, even as he urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding.
According to him, “Pentecost Elijah, popularly known as “Congo Man,” was reportedly a victim of an acid attack by unknown assailants several years ago and had allegedly written letters to successive administrations seeking government-sponsored surgery, but, no level of provocation or frustration, can justify any unlawful act.” The monarch maintained.
Okoto noted that his community has witnessed remarkable progress under the administration of the governor, Senator Douye Diri, and cited the near completion of the Angiama–Oporoma Bridge by CCECC, including the successful laying of final slabs and the extension of asphalt into Otuan, as clear evidence of the administration’s commitment to opening up riverine communities.
The monarch commended the governor for his visionary leadership and for ensuring the execution and completion of critical projects across the state and reaffirmed the community’s continued support for the administration and expressed appreciation for the developmental strides recorded so far.
While condemning the alleged act in its entirety, the paramount ruler appealed to the government to temper justice with mercy by considering leniency in addressing the matter, acknowledging the suspect’s reported mental and emotional distress.
He also joined well-meaning Bayelsans at home and in the diaspora to congratulate Diri on his sixth anniversary in office, praying for God’s guidance, good health, and greater wisdom as he continues to steer the affairs of the state to higher heights.
