Abakaliki, Nigeria – The Chairman of Afikpo North Local Government Area (LGA) of Ebonyi state, Chief Timothy Nwachi, has condemned the destruction of properties at the Afikpo timber market by youths protesting the electrocution of their relative.
The victim was reportedly electrocuted while off-loading timber at the market.
Nwachi made the condemnation on Monday while receiving a delegation of the Afikpo Timber Traders Association who paid him a courtesy call, advising people to stop taking laws into their hands.
The council boss sympathised with the bereaved family and commended the association’s members for their matured disposition towards the incident.
“This administration will resolve the matter amicably to sustain the peaceful atmosphere in the council.
“Peace is unfortunately becoming elusive in many areas and the collateral damage on human relations always comes with untold consequences.
“I, therefore, implore the people to live in peace and harmony as no meaningful development can take place in an environment devoid of tranquility.”
He pledged his administration’s continued collaboration with the association.
The Chairman of Afikpo Timber Traders Association, Chief Donatus Aja, said the visit was to congratulate Nwachi on his successful inauguration as chairman and to consolidate the existing relationship between the council and association.
“We also use this opportunity to inform you of the unfortunate circumstances leading to the attack on Afikpo Timber market where its conference hall and individual shops were destroyed.
“We appeal for government’s intervention in resolving the matter and compensating the victims.
“We also solicit the installation of an electric transformer at the timber market to boost electricity supply.”
