Authorities in Ebem Ohafia, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State, have imposed an immediate ban on the sale, use and trafficking of hard drugs, cultism, gun violence and other criminal activities within the community.
The decision was announced on Tuesday by Ebem Ohafia youths in collaboration with the Central Executive Council of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union, with the full backing of the community’s Council of Chiefs and Elders.
In a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Ebem Ohafia Development Union, Ifeanyi Okali, the community ordered all criminal elements using Ebem Ohafia as a hideout to leave immediately, warning that residents found harbouring such persons would be held accountable.
The statement said anyone caught selling, using or trafficking hard drugs or illicit substances would face stiff fines and disciplinary measures, regardless of status or position.
It also issued a final warning on cultism, directing individuals involved in such activities to renounce them or face severe community sanctions and prosecution.
The community further banned fighting with weapons, brandishing of firearms and gunshots, warning that offenders would be handed over to security agencies, fined heavily and subjected to additional sanctions.
Under the new measures, Ndi Ikwu will be held responsible for defaulters within their jurisdictions and may be suspended from hosting social or ceremonial events where necessary.
In addition, traders operating along the Ebem Police Station/Court Road and within the Ebem Daily Market were warned against obstructing gutters, walkways and designated free zones.
The community said any violation would attract the immediate impoundment of goods, as part of efforts to restore order and safety in Ebem Ohafia.