Ankpa Tensions: AMEFU Demands Tony Tony’s Release, Warns Against Escalation

By Odimayo Olatunde, Kogi

The Ankpa Brothers (AMEFU), a prominent socio-cultural group in Kogi State, has called for the immediate release of Tony Tony, urging authorities and other stakeholders to embrace dialogue and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions in the community.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its President, Sani Daniel, the group appealed for calm, restraint and adherence to due process, stressing that the circumstances surrounding Tony Tony’s arrest should be handled with maturity and fairness.

AMEFU said the peace and stability of Ankpa must remain the priority of all stakeholders, noting that disagreements and grievances were better resolved through constructive engagement than confrontation.

The group said it remained committed to promoting unity, justice and peaceful development in Ankpa and Kogi State.

He added that every party involved in the matter should be given the opportunity to present its position and seek a mutually acceptable resolution.

“We therefore appeal for calm and restraint from all sides. 

Where there are grievances or allegations, they should be addressed fairly, transparently and in accordance with due process, while safeguarding the dignity and lawful rights of everyone involved,” the statement said.

AMEFU described Tony Tony as “a voice of reasoning and dialogue,” arguing that opening channels of communication would do more to promote peace and reconciliation than measures that could deepen divisions among the people.

“Tony Tony has been a voice of reasoning and dialogue, and we believe that allowing dialogue to prevail will contribute more positively to peace and reconciliation than actions that may deepen tension or division,” the group stated.

The socio-cultural organisation therefore appealed to the appropriate authorities to give urgent and compassionate consideration to Tony Tony’s release, subject to the requirements of the law, while creating an enabling environment for the peaceful resolution of outstanding issues.

It also urged community leaders, government officials, security agencies and other stakeholders to work collectively towards resolving the matter peacefully.

According to the group, responsible engagement, mutual respect and strict adherence to due process remain the best ways to resolve disputes and preserve peaceful coexistence in Ankpa.

AMEFU further appealed to its members, youths, supporters and the wider public to refrain from inflammatory statements, protests or actions that could heighten tensions.

The group warned that any attempt to aggravate the situation could create unnecessary divisions and undermine the peace and unity of the community.

“Our collective interest should remain the peace, unity and progress of Ankpa,” the statement said.

AMEFU concluded its appeal with a call for reason and reconciliation, saying: “Let reason prevail. Let dialogue prevail. Let peace prevail.”