Felix Ikem, Nsukka
The Nsukka Journalists Foundation has commended Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuany for the promptness, maturity, responsibility, understanding and empathy he exhibited in handling the #EndSARS protests in the State.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Chijioke Amu-Nnadi, Secretary, Brendan Eze and Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Ikechukwu-Jonathan, they stated that Governor Ugwuanyi ensured that the protests did not degenerate into mayhem and statewide destruction of lives and property.
The Foundation declared that “the best development occurs in an environment of peace and security,” even as they enjoined youths of Enugu State “to continue to be peaceful, law-abiding and purposeful, as supporters of Enugu State development, in the pursuit of all their endeavours.”
Stressing further the Foundation declared that “It is noteworthy that in those days of the protest, Enugu State remained largely peaceful. Governor Ugwuanyi is known as a man of peace and has worked hard to establish a culture of peace and security in Enugu State.
“This was evident during the protests when he left the comfort of Government House to interface with protesters, in a commendable effort to ensure that law and order were maintained,” the statement added.
The Foundation, a body of practising journalists from Nsukka Cultural Zone, noted that the violence that erupted during the protests have been traced to miscreants from outside Enugu State who came to rob and pillage.
They described as unfortunate the death of two serving police officers in the state, Inspector John Jesse and Constable Ogboji Emmanuel, as well as the destruction of police stations and property in Emene and other parts of Enugu metropolis and commiserated with the Governor and Inspector General of Police.
“We pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and that God will grant their families, the Inspector General of Police and the Governor the fortitude to bear this unfortunate demise,” the Foundation stated.
“It is worrisome that miscreants are taking advantage of the peaceful disposition of the Governor to invade Enugu State. But we are assured of Governor Ugwuanyi’s resolve to maintain peace and security, as a foundation for building on the legacy of good governance in Enugu State.”