The Chairman, Andoni Local Government Council in Rivers State, Mr Erastus Awortu, has expressed deep concern over the misuse and proliferation of firearms by local vigilante groups in the state.
The chairman, therefore, disbanded OSPAC, a vigilante group operating in the area.
Mr. Awortu, disclosd this late Wednesday, while inaugurating the new councillors, Vice Chairman, and other key officers in his cabinet in Ngo, the Headquarters of the council while inaugurating
“In respect of vigilante services, we are currently working with the peace committee set up by the chiefs. I advise all persons threatening the peace as a result of one grievance or another to channel their complaints to the chiefs.
“In my discussion with the chiefs, I have been advised that we will need the vigilante services but this is going to be a properly organised group.
“The formation will have the inputs of the chiefs, Community Development Chairmen, the women, and all the communities, to enable us maintain a safe Andoni,’’ he said.
Awortu commended the security agencies for timely response to an alleged attempt by an armed man to foment trouble during a Thanksgiving session held on Tuesday in Ngo.
Awortu said apart from the Federal Government recognised security agencies and state government security formation (The Neighborhood Watch), the local government area presently had not recognised any vigilante group.
The chairman, who was practising as a lawyer until his new appointment, expressed dismay over the circumstances that led to shutting down of courts in the area.
Awortu however, promised to strengthen operations of the judiciary and ensure that court activities resumed as soon as possible.