The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has called for immediate release of the 13 farmers from Itu Mbonuso, Ini local government of the state, who were abducted on their farm recently.
It urged the State Ministry of Internal Security to promptly collaborate with security agencies to secure their release.
The resolution followed a matter of urgent public importance raised by the member representing the Ini state constituency, Lawrence Udoide during Wednesday plenary.
Udoide disclosed to the House that on July 14, some people suspected to come from Arochukwu, a neighboring community in Abia State abducted 13 farmers to an unknown destination.
The report was received through a motion by Mr Moses Essien, member representing Ibiono Ibom state constituency and seconded by Mr Itoro-Obong Etim, member representing Uruan state constituency.
The lawmaker expressed grave concern over the rising incidents of violence in his constituency, describing the situation as “a siege perpetrated by unscrupulous elements from Arochukwu.”
Udoide highlighted the deteriorating security conditions in Ini local government area, noting that residents of Nkari, Itu-Mbonuso, and Iwerre now live in constant fear.
“One of my constituents went to his farm and discovered that someone had trespassed on his land. He, along with his brother, approached the trespassers to resolve the issue amicably.
“Unfortunately, a misunderstanding ensued, and the trespassers called for reinforcements.
“My constituent was assaulted, and one person was abducted and taken to Abia State.
“The brother who returned home to report the incident later returned with others to search for the abducted individual, only to be ambushed, resulting in the abduction of 12 more people from Itu Mbonuso, bringing the total to 13 that are yet to be released,” Udoide said.
Udoide pleaded with the House to take action and inform Gov. Umo Eno to engage with the Abia Government to facilitate the release of the 13 abducted farmers without delay.
Members who contributed to the debate described the incursion into Itu Mbonuso as unacceptable, stressing that the people deserved to live in peace in their land without molestation.
The Speaker, Mr Udeme Otong, urged the Akwa Ibom Government to engage the Abia counterpart to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals without delay.
Otong also directed the Chairman of the House Committee on Security to coordinate with the relevant government’s ministry and security agencies for updates on the situation.
He urged the security agencies to work together and prevent further attacks on Itu Mbonuso and other border communities in the Ini local government area.
