Governor Lobong bans illegal movement with guns in Ikwoto town

JUBA — The Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, Louis Lobong on Tuesday banned people’s movement with guns inside Ikwoto town.

The Governor issued the order during a public rally in the town of Ikwoto on Tuesday.  

“From today (Tuesday) onwards, I have ordered that nobody should again walk with guns inside Ikwoto town, cattle raiders must cease from passing with raided cattle through the town of Ikwoto, and nobody should be chased out of Ikwoto town,” Lobong said.

The order came following last week’s highway attack on a humanitarian convoy which left three aid workers dead in Ikwoto County of Eastern Equatoria State.

Lobong said the presence of illicit firearms in the hands of unauthorized persons has fuelled conflict in the area.

He called on those who fled the area to return home and rebuild their lives.

“It is worth noting that calm has returned to Ikwoto town and movement on the roads leading to the County Headquarters have resumed,” he said.

He urged the population to denounce conflict and embrace the spirit of togetherness.

“You the youth, let there be peace in Ikwoto County, let’s refuse to be used all the time by those people who want to use you to achieve their selfish interests,” he said.

The Paramount Chief of Ikwoto County Odong Joseph blamed politicians for fueling the ongoing inter-communal violence in Ikwoto County.

“Our Governor I would to ask you to advise the area elites to work together to stabilize the region,” Joseph said.

Both the youth and the women leaders called on the government to initiate reconciliation with Logir so that people can return to the former days of peace and unity among communities in Ikwoto County.