The Rivers State government wishes to confirm that on October 13, 2012 the Commissioner for Power, Mr Augustine Nwokocha was seized by unidentified men who are suspected to be hoodlums and career criminals. The information available at the time of the incident indicated that he was on a spot assessment of some areas affected by the recent flooding in the state. It is believed that he was on his way to monitor relief materials and the situation in one of the camps before the incident happened.
Although the details are sketchy, the government wishes to confirm that the security agencies are on top of the situation and have the full cooperation and backing of the government to ensure that the official is rescued and the perpetrators brought to book.
The Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Rt Hon Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi has directed the security agencies to ensure the safe return of Hon Nwokocha without delay.
The security agencies are working on a number of leads and a combined search mission is in full swing to unravel the untoward development.
It is pertinent to state that the state has enjoyed relative peace and quiet until now. The government wishes to assure all citizens of their security and safety. In the same vein, members of the public who may have useful information are encouraged to pass same on to the Police or any of the security agencies.”
Clearly this incident has generated much interest and further information will be shared as events unfold. As always we appreciate the support of the media in ensuring that our society is crime free.
IBIM SEMENITARI,
Hon Comm For Information,
Rivers State,
Port Harcourt.
October 15,2012
