The Deputy General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Umuahia Zone, Catechist Ambrose Jonah, has strongly condemned the assault incident that occurred over the weekend in Umuahia involving members of an ASEPA task force and a resident, describing the act as unacceptable and contrary to the agency’s operational standards.
Speaking to journalists in his office in Umuahia, Jonah emphasized that ASEPA does not tolerate lawlessness or violence, stressing that the agency’s standard procedure in cases of resistance or provocation is to involve the police rather than engage in physical confrontation.
“We totally condemn what happened on Saturday. No matter the level of provocation, our duty is to invite the police. We are not supposed to assault anyone,” he stated.
Jonah clarified that the individual alleged to have carried out the assault was not a member of the official monitoring team on duty at the time of the incident. According to him, the suspect reportedly intervened during a heated argument between residents and sanitation officials and acted independently.
“He was not among the team working at that location. He came in from outside and allegedly pulled out a matchet from his private vehicle. ASEPA does not operate with weapons or handcuffs,” he explained.
Following the incident, the Deputy General Manager disclosed that the ASEPA monitoring team in Umuahia Zone has been disbanded. He added that only about 13 carefully screened personnel would be retained going forward to ensure discipline and professionalism.
Jonah also confirmed that ASEPA has taken full responsibility for the victim’s medical treatment.
“I personally stayed with him at the hospital. The medical bills have been paid, and I thank the family for their understanding. By the grace of God, his hand is now functioning after surgery,” he said.
He assured the public that the police have been allowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, revealing that about five individuals are currently being questioned in connection with the incident.
While condemning the assault, Jonah appealed to residents to support environmental sanitation efforts, noting that a clean environment benefits everyone and enhances the image of Abia State.
“Keeping the environment clean is for our own good. ASEPA is not an enemy of the people. We are working for the glory of Abia State,” he said.
He further lamented increasing hostility toward sanitation workers, disclosing that street sweepers are frequently attacked while carrying out their duties.
“These women are beaten daily while sweeping the streets. That is part of the challenge we face,” he added.
Jonah also revealed that ASEPA had earlier received intelligence reports about planned attacks on its personnel weeks before the incident.
He emphasized that ASEPA officers receive regular training on professional conduct and reiterated that the agency has historically maintained a peaceful working relationship with the police.
“This is the first time we are witnessing such an incident. ASEPA is a well-coordinated agency, and we will not tolerate violence under the administration of Governor Alex Otti,” Jonah concluded.
