Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Tension is mounting in Aba, the commercial capital of Abia State, following the fatal shooting of a trailer driver, Kelechi Ejiofor, at the Uratta Timber Market by a soldier.
The state government has assured that justice will be served, vowing that those responsible for the act will not go unpunished.
In a response, the government said it is already in talks with military authorities to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The killing has triggered public outrage and renewed concerns over the conduct of security personnel in civilian areas.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, in a statement, described the incident as tragic and unacceptable, adding that steps to establish accountability have been set in motion.
He emphasized that the government would ensure not just a thorough investigation, but one that is transparent and credible enough to restore public confidence.
“We are committed to ensuring that justice is done and seen to be done. Any officer found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
The government also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, even as it acknowledged the anger and grief trailing the incident.
Meanwhile, the development has once again put a spotlight on civil-military relations, especially in busy commercial hubs like Aba, where traders and transport operators are demanding clearer rules of engagement and stronger safeguards against the misuse of force.
Reiterating its stance, the government maintained that the protection of lives and respect for citizens’ rights remain non-negotiable, warning that acts of impunity will not be tolerated under any guise.
