Rep. Sam Onuigbo commiserates with families who lost their youths and asks for calm

House member Representating

Ikwuano/Umuahia North/South Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo has commiserated with Nigerian youths, especially the youths of Ikwuano/Umuahia North/South Federal Constituency and Abia State over the events of the past few weeks as could be described as a see-saw one, moving from moments we should all be proud of, to moments of immense tragedy. 

"Let me therefore commiserate first with the families of all those who lost their loved ones through police brutality and from the protests that rocked our nation. May God in His infinite mercy grant us all the strength to bear the loss of our beloved ones. The loss of lives was tragic, preventable and highly regrettable."

"A couple of weeks ago when the #EndPoliceBrutality protests started, I had issued a statement pledging my complete support to an end to police brutality and commending our youths for standing firm against it. That movement showed our youths’ resilience and commitment to fighting for a better future for themselves and posterity while sending a strong message to government that it will be held fully accountable from now on. It was a moment of awakening and pride for all of us and I commend you for standing up to be counted."

"Sadly, events have taken a sad and tragic turn and it is now time to reign in. The destruction of properties of both government and private individuals by Hoodlums who hijacked the protest is regrettable and should be brought to a stop especially as your message has been heard by government and efforts are currently ongoing to ensure that all requests are met and a sustainable end to police brutality enshrined. It is therefore time to stop and give government the chance to address these issues methodologically. Thankfully, in Abia State, and in some other states, Judicial Panels of Inquiry have been set up to look into alleged cases of police brutality, ensure that those culpable are brought to book, while proffering solutions to an end to it. This is commendable and should be allowed to take firm root, for the good of our society."

"I therefore enjoin all of us to sheath our swords and give peace a chance. It will be for the greater good of our people.

Let me sympathize once again with the families of those who lost their lives in the course of attaining this enviable position. The sacrifices of your loved ones will not be in vain. 

Thank you very much, and may the almighty God continue to guide and direct our steps."