Former Militant Explains Protest

Former militants of Imo o r gin have explained why they took to the streets to protest at major roads in Owerri, Imo State capital, at the weekend.

The leader of the erstwhile militants in the state, Mr. Calous Ashiowu, disclosed that for over one week, they were kept at the camp for rehabilitation but they were yet to be given the allowances promised them by the Federal Government as part of the amnesty package.

The leader of the group, who spoke with the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Goodluck Opiah said they were not happy that after they were persuaded to lay down their arms and embrace peace through amnesty, the Federal Government was yet to begin payment.

While apologising to the state, he urged that urgent steps should be taken by the Federal Government to pay the militants.

Opiah said the former militants should eschew violence and imbibe dialogue, adding that anyone found guilty of breach of public peace would face the wrath of the law accordingly.