In Abakaliki, its residents suffer surge in burglaries and cult clashes which resulted in loss of life and adverse impacts on business activities.
Crediblenews interviewed residents who expressed concerns not only about cult activities but also about the alarming increase in burglaries and food theft.
According to Mrs. Chinenye Orji, many residents have suffered losses of valuable items and food due to burglars and petty thieves.
She said assailants once forced a neighbour to empty her bank account using a Point of Sale machine they carried into the victim’s house.
“It is so bad; we no longer sleep with our eyes closed. There are fears everywhere because of cult activities in some parts,’’ she said.
Mr Job Okereke, another resident, told crediblebews that burglars broke into his neighbor’s apartment in broad daylight on Tuesday and carted away food while the occupants were gone to their various businesses.
“We require the assistance of the government and security agencies.” Our businesses are failing, and the country’s economic situation isn’t helping,” he lamented.
In response, Mr Ebere Nwogba, Chairman of the Abakaliki Local Government Council, assured that the government was determined to address the situation in order to restore peace and order in the area.
“I convened an expanded security meeting with security chiefs, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders to end violence and cult-related activities in Abakaliki and environs.”
“It is sad that cult activities and burglaries are causing people pain, especially bereaved families,” he said.
Attempts to elicit police responses were futile.