Seven persons have been injured in renewed clashes between Enugu and Kogi states over a border town, Etteh.
Igala speaking Etteh is a border town between Kogi and Enugu, although it is placed under Enugu State.
Kogi indigenes, however, want it ceded to their state.
Hoodlums from Kogi State, who allegedly started the attack, were said to have been escorted by mobile policemen from Lokoja.
According to Tony Ogidi representing Igboeze North II constituency in the House of Assembly, it started when about 120 policemen from MOPOL 37, Lokoja, led hoodlums in six Toyota Hilux vehicles to Etteh and began to shoot, loot and burn houses.
“It was during the “invasion” that about seven persons, including a woman, were injured. They are receiving treatment at various hospitals in Enugu Ezike.”
Ogidi said the policemen shot some people and the hoodlums allegedly raped women.
“I represent my people at the Enugu State House of Assembly. We are from Enugu and not Kogi State. We are also not under two police commands, and there is no reason why policemen would invade an area which is outside their jurisdiction to foment trouble.
“Etteh has five autonomous communities and 25 primary schools, two customary courts, seven secondary schools, and has always been administered by the Enugu State government.
“I appeal to the Inspector-General of Police, Solomon Arase, to intervene in this matter and find out how policemen would leave Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, to destroy property in Enugu.
“As we speak, schools and offices in Etteh are closed as people now sleep in the bushes to evade torture. Etteh is not under two states. They want to fraudulently force it into Kogi State,” Ogidi said.
Enugu State police spokesman Ebere Amaraizu confirmed the incident.
He said: “We have received the report and we have intervened. We are on top of the situation. It will soon be resolved and this will be the last time they will cross the border to foment trouble.” (The Nation)
