Abia: There’s a plot by non-state group to kidnap govt officials, monarchs

The Abia state government has raised the alarm over an alleged plot to attack and kidnap prominent persons in the state.

In a statement on Sunday, John Kalu, Abia commissioner of information, warned the alleged plotters whom he described as “renegade members of a non-state group” to desist from their planned action.

He also advised high-profile personalities in the state to be watchful, adding that the state security agents are already on the trail of the masterminds of the alleged plot.

“Abia State Government has uncovered plots by renegade members of a non-state group to attack and kidnap prominent persons in the state including public office holders, traditional rulers, members of the clergy, and hold them as human shield and ransom for negotiations,” the statement reads.

“While we strongly admonish those behind the dastardly plot to desist from it, we advise such high profile personalities mentioned above to exercise utmost vigilance while going about their normal duties as security agents in the country are on the trail of the arrowheads of the plot with a view to nipping it in the bud and bring those involved to justice.

“Government further appeals to all citizens and visitors to keep their focus on maintaining the existing peace in the state and avoid acts that are capable of reversing the gains we have made collectively in securing the State through the understanding and cooperation of all.”

The south-eastern part of the country has seen a spike in criminal activities in recent months with security agents and residents killed while government facilities, particularly police stations, are razed by members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).