The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has strongly condemned the horrific and senseless killing of Jacob Udo and his wife Comfort, who lived in Isiala Local Government Area of Bende Local Government Area of Abia State until they were murdered by unknown persons.
The late Udo and his wife, who hail from Itumbuzor in the same Bende Local Government Area, were reportedly beheaded and their bodies mutilated by yet-to-be-identified assailants on Tuesday night.
Deputy Speaker Levinas Nwabugiogu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, said in a statement by Kalu State Chief Spokesman on Wednesday that this heinous act of violence is unacceptable and violates fundamental human rights.
The Vice-Chairman described this as barbaric and said there was no reason or grievance to justify such a cruel, inhuman and despicable act.
He expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and called on the state government and law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation aimed at arresting the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
The Deputy Speaker also called on communities in the constituency to exercise calm and restraint and warned of retaliatory attacks.
Kalu promised that authorities would take the necessary steps to ensure the killers are found and punished for their crimes.
He said: “I unequivocally condemn the brutal murder of this couple. This shocking act of violence goes against the basic principles of humanity. My thoughts are with the families of the victims and their loved ones.”
“I urge the authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice. We stand united against violence and extremism and advocate a culture of tolerance, respect and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
“We urge all members of our community to remain calm and use caution to prevent escalation.
“The safety and well-being of our people is of paramount importance. While we understand the sentiments and concerns, violence and retaliatory attacks will only lead to further suffering and division,” the statement said.
Kalu also appealed to community leaders, residents and authorities to work together to maintain public safety.
