The Enugu State government has condemned the illegal sit-at-home order issued by unidentified individuals following the death of popular Ogene musician, Okezie Mba, aka Igbo Jah.
The government described the perpetrators of the illegal order as criminals and opportunists who seek to disrupt the peace and progress of Enugu State and the Igbo nation.
Assuring citizens of their safety, the government stated that security agencies have taken decisive action to apprehend those responsible for the musician’s death. The government urged the public to disregard the illegal order and continue with their daily activities.
In a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, stated “Our attention has been drawn to reports making the rounds on social media to the effect that some criminal and faceless non-state actors have declared a sit-at-home in Enugu State on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, purportedly to protest the unfortunate killing of the popular Ogene musician, Okezie Mba, aka Igbo Jah, by a police officer on Friday.
“Enugu State government, again, restates its condemnation of the killing as abominable, unacceptable and totally against the values we hold dear, especially the sanctity of human life.
“Indeed, Governor Peter Mbah spared no time in ordering a thorough investigation to unravel the circumstance of the killing, with a view to bringing the perpetrator(s) to justice. Already, the culprit has been identified and in custody, while investigation continues.
“On Sunday morning, a delegation from the state government, led by the Secretary to the State Government and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr Victor Udeh, visited the bereaved family to empathize with them and reemphasized government’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
“Enugu State government is, however, not surprised that criminal elements are seeking to exploit the unfortunate situation to cause mayhem in the state, restrict economic activities and inflict more pain on our people.
“These opportunists who play on the emotions of our people in the name of freedom agitation do not mean well for a people known for enterprise, hard work and creativity.
‘’They cannot be our true representatives. They do not represent the values we cherish. They are simply criminals and enemies of Ndi Igbo sponsored to destabilize the region.
“To this end, and as usual, there shall be no compliance with the illegal sit-at-home order in any part of Enugu State on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Government will muster all the powers at its disposal to ensure the security of lives and property of our people.
Government, hereby, charges civil servants, farmers, market men and women, the corporate sector, business and shop owners, schools, teachers, and all workers in Enugu State that the sit-at-homes belong to an inglorious past we must erase from our memories.”
The government has also warned against the spread of fear and misinformation through social media and other platforms. They have vowed to prosecute individuals found sharing content that promotes the illegal sit-at-home order.
