The people of Alode community in the Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State have debunked rumours making the round that the community is locked in a land dispute with their Okrika neighbours.
Between 1999 and 2000, the people of Eleme and Okrika engaged in a fierce confrontation occasioned by boundary dispute.
Since then, mutual suspicion has continued to define relationship between the two Rivers communities who are joint hosts to the Port Harcourt Refinery.
On Monday, there was a safety advisory which was not confirmed by relevant authorities, urging the public to exercise caution as they navigate through Alode in Eleme, citing ongoing crisis with the Okrika community.
However in a statement on Wednesday from the office of the Alode Youth President, Comrade Dickson Okochi, it debunked the rumour, describing it as false.
“We want to assure everyone that the message circulating about a land rift and ambush in Alode, Eleme, is completely false. This is a malicious rumor designed to create tension and unrest in our community.
“The people of Alode and Eleme are peaceful and law-abiding, and there’s no truth to the claims of violence or retaliation.
“We believe this is a deliberate attempt by some unknown individuals to sow discord and destabilize our area.
“Security agencies have been alerted, and investigations are underway to identify the source of this rumor.
“We will not tolerate such actions and will bring the perpetrators to justice, the statement signed by the Publicity Secretary of Alode Youth Council, Comrade Dickson Williams read in part.
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The statement urged the people to remain calm and vigilant.
“Our community is safe, and we’ll continue to work together to maintain peace and harmony.
“Eleme is open for business! We have a conducive environment for companies and investors to thrive. Our community is safe, stable, and ready to support economic growth and development.
“We assure everyone that Eleme is a great destination for business opportunities, and we’re committed to maintaining the peace and stability that investors need to succeed”, the statement added.
