The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council and Chief Security Officer of the Local Government Area, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, undertook a crucial peace mission to Iko Esai Community following the outbreak of violence that engulfed the area on Sunday, 10th February, 2025, and extended into the early hours of Monday, 11th February, 2025.
Surveying the grim aftermath of the hostilities, Akposi decried the orgy of destruction, condemning the barbaric display of vendetta in an era when civilised societies are harnessing progressive strategies to drive sustainable development. Expressing his displeasure, he lamented the wanton ruination of livelihoods and infrastructures, stressing that such senseless acts only deter meaningful growth.
Addressing the aggrieved youths, the council boss admonished them for resorting to extrajudicial measures instead of allowing lawful authorities to mediate. “This is unacceptable by any standards. Yes, you are enraged over the killing of a young man, but two wrongs do not make a right. Investors will flee from a volatile environment where the rule of law is undermined. The resources that should be channeled into developmental projects are now being diverted to restore order—an avoidable and regrettable expenditure,” he stated.
Issuing a stern warning, Akposi reminded the youths of the heavy security presence deployed to the community, cautioning against any attack on the operatives. “Let it not be heard that any harm has befallen them, or it will not be business as usual,” he warned emphatically. He further urged them to embrace tolerance and employ civil mechanisms for conflict resolution rather than resorting to destructive reprisals. “What you have destroyed are legacies, lifetime investments, and heritage,” he added.
In response, the youths, through their representative, pledged to lay down their arms and embrace peace, acknowledging that sustainable development is unattainable in an atmosphere of turmoil. Meanwhile, the leadership of the warring factions has been summoned by law enforcement agencies to aid in ongoing investigations into the remote causes of the conflict, widely speculated to revolve around resource control within the community.
As calm gradually returns to Iko Esai, Akposi’s intervention stands as a defining moment in reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law, order, and sustainable development in Akamkpa Local Government Area.
