Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra state has placed a N20 million bounty on the killers of Dr Chike Akunyili and nine others.
The governor announced this during his state-wide broadcast after the harvest of killings in the state by gunmen.
Recall that Dr. Chike was murdered by unknown gunmen in Onitsha on Tuesday, September 28. Read here.
Speaking at a press conference, Governor Obiano said security operatives should step up their security network, adding that his administration would no longer tolerate further killings. He said no fewer than 10 persons were killed by gunmen, including one of the influential sons of the State, Dr. Chike Akunyili
“To reinforce our commitment and seriousness on this issue, I on behalf of the State Government, wish to announce a N20,000,000 reward for any useful information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators of these heinous attacks on our state. The people behind this must be unmasked and brought to book.
I urge citizens to report to us anybody bearing firearm who is not a security or vigilante personnel, so we can deal with this monster, once and for all. I wish to most heartily condole with the families of all those who have lost their loved ones in the course of these senseless attacks.
I promise you that we will leave no stone unturned in getting justice for them. May their souls rest in peace. Finally, I urge all citizens of the state to unite in this fight against all forms of terror, intimidation and tyranny.
We will not succumb to invaders as I am convinced that no Anambra son will indulge in this kind of heartlessness. I warn all those promoting and participating in these violent attacks to leave our state or pay a high price as we will definitely catch up with them.
Since last weekend, some armed persons have unleashed terror with sporadic attacks on innocent citizens in various parts of the State.
From the briefings I have received from Security Commanders, Offices of some political parties, branded campaign vehicles and individuals occupying them have been attacked with killings and burning of vehicles observed. Other innocent road users have become victims of this menace with many losing their lives and others, their properties.
Between Sunday 26th and 28th September, 2021 attacks on citizens at Oko, Agulu, Obosi, Nkpor, Nnobi, Nnewi and other places have left about 10.people dead including an illustrious son of this State, Dr Chike Akunyili, husband of late Prof Dora Akunyili who was reportedly gunned down yesterday around Nkpor. These attacks and accompanying deaths cannot be justified and must stop now.
I have therefore conducted an extensive security meeting and have directed all security agencies to step up and confront this monster ravaging our land.”