01 August 2012, Sweetcrude, PORT HARCOURT – FOLLOWING the recent crack down on some militants in Okrika Local Government, Rivers State, by the Joint Task Force, JTF, the council chiefs in Ogoloma Community of the local government area have debunked insinuations that its youths are preparing a reprisal attack on the JTF.
At a press conference, Tuesday, Chief Levi Tamunoyowuna II Alalibo, spokesman for the community, berated those spreading such rumour even as he praised the activities of the JTF, saying their coming to the community has not only made the area peaceful but has created opportunities for commercial activities.
“The meeting the community had was a peaceful meeting dwelling on the unity of the community and also preparing for the incoming jetty project by the Nigeria Inland Waterways and how those affected by the new development would begin to relocate.
“We were therefore shocked when the news started filtering in that our youths are planning to attack the JTF and that is the essence of the press conference to allay the fears of the JTF. The rumour is baseless and misleading and we know it is an attempt to destroy the good relationship that exist between the Ogoloma community and the JTF.”
Meanwhile, youths in the community have also condemned the rumour even as they pledged their support for the JTF. They warned rumour mongers and mischief makers to desist from activities that do not represent the good people of Ogoloma, saying, “we know the importance of peace in this community and that is why we are very happy that the JTF is within our community here.
“Since they have been here the place has been relatively peaceful. We equally know that peace effort is not meant for the JTF alone and that is why are willing and ready to assist them particularly in the area of information to make their job easier.”
