Following the rising spate of cult related activities in Ogoniland in recent times, chief Gani Topba has issued a 14 day ultimatum to cult groups terrorizing Zaakpon community to surrender their guns and embrace peace or be ready to face unpleasant consequences.
He made the declaration during a stakeholders’ meeting on peace held at Zaakpon Community Town Hall in Khana Local Government Area over the weekend.
Gani who gave the name of two rival cult groups terrorizing the area as Dey bam, Dey well threatened to declare them wanted if they fail to surrender at the end of the 14day ultimatum, pointing out that Zaakpon Community which he referred to as God’s own community cannot be destroyed by a few selfish uncivilized individuals fighting for supremacy.
Zaakpon, he said is a great community that has produced prominent people and must not be destroyed for just no cause. He appealed to the groups troubling the area to have a change of heart and embrace peace. He also appealed to parents to talk to their children and wards carrying out the dastardly acts to give peace a chance so as to move the area forward.
Mr. Gani who revealed that it was not the first time that the community was facing such security challenge, argued that the present situation is more disastrous compared to what happened 14yrs ago when cultists also attacked the community, killing innocent people.
In like manner, Dr. Barile Edward Ikpae called on the cult groups to lay down their arms and ammunition for peace to reign, stressing that the wanton destruction of lives and property witnessed in the community was unnecessary.
He promised to support any move that would ensure lasting peace in the area.
Barile who is also the chairman of Ogoni Doctors Forum said no meaningful development can be achieved in an atmosphere devoid of peace. He therefore called on the government to look into the plight of the youths by creating jobs, stressing that if there was a meaningful employment provided, there would be little or no time for these youths to go into crime.
Prayers were also offered during the occasion for peace by the men of God who sang and danced round the community with Chief Gani Topba.
