Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
The chairman of Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Emmanuel Ajah, on Friday, banned media coverage, cultural display, musical entertainment, and all forms of public gatherings in Ihie Autonomous Community for five days.
He gave the order in a statement on Friday in Ishiagu, Headquarters of the council.
He said the restrictions, which will affect the community’s 2024 New Yam Festival, will commence from September 26th to 30th, 2024, following rising security challenges in the autonomous community.
Mr Ajah noted that it is unhealthy to hold any public gathering amidst the hydra-headed crises rocking the community currently, stating that the situation is a delicate moment.
He added that the ban remains the only way to handle the current situation in the community, stressing that if the situation is not handled with utmost prudence, the brewing crisis might rupture into a community crisis.
He urged the people of Ihie to obey the order and embrace peace.
The statement reads: “Due to some serious security threats to the peaceful coexistence of the people of Ihie Autonomous Community and considering the rising security challenges in Ivo LGA, I regret to announce the ban on every public gathering on September 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, and 30th, 2024.
“The ban is within any place in Ihie Autonomous Community or any of the four kindreds making up Ihie.
“No coronation shall take place as there is no festival holding. There shall be no cultural dance, no DJ shall play, no media coverage in any gathering, and no decoration of a place.”
He stated that any person or group of persons who violates the security order shall be treated as an enemy of the government and shall be made to face the full weight of the law.
