In the state's Akamkpa Local Government Area, a policeman was slain and another was badly injured in a recent hoodlum attack on a police station in Old Netim town.
The member representing Akamkpa 2 State Constituency and chairman of the House Committee on Information and Public Affairs, Okon Nyong Owuna, brought up a subject of vital public interest during their plenary session on Thursday. He lamented the lack of security in his district.
He blamed the kids' brazenness and the prevalence of guns for the recent police officer homicide and the mob attack that severely injured another officer.
He bemoaned the shortcomings in the police force that prevent them from dealing with criminals.
In their various contributions, the lawmakers denounced the assault on the police station, urged the state government to send vehicles to the three police formations at Akamkpa, and argued that local government officials should fund the police on a monthly basis so that they could improve their operations.
They decided that in order to reduce the rising crime rate in Akamkpa, the state government should work with security organizations through the State Security Adviser.
The House also urged local residents to organize vigilante organizations to supplement government efforts and made appeals to local corporate entities and investors to donate logistical support to the effort to combat crime.
They filed lawsuits, among other things, to demand the improvement of the police force and the development of employment possibilities.
Elvert Ayambem, Speaker of the Assembly, responded by expressing sorrow for the police officer's death and hope that those responsible will be held accountable.