A socio-cultural group in Kogi State, Ankpa Brothers (AMEFU), has appealed for the immediate release of Tony Tony, urging relevant authorities and stakeholders to embrace reason, peace, understanding and constructive dialogue in addressing the circumstances surrounding his arrest.
The group made the appeal in a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its President, Sani Daniel, stressing the need for all parties to handle the matter with maturity and in accordance with the rule of law.
Ankpa Brothers said, as a group committed to unity, justice and the peaceful development of Ankpa and Kogi State, it believes that disagreements and misunderstandings are better resolved through engagement, mutual respect and dialogue.
The statement read in part: “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.
“We believe that every issue, no matter how sensitive, can be resolved when parties are given the opportunity to sit together, listen to one another and seek common ground.
“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.
“We respectfully call upon the appropriate authorities to give urgent and compassionate consideration to his release, subject to the requirements of the law, and to create an atmosphere where all outstanding issues can be resolved peacefully.
“The continued peace and stability of Ankpa should remain our collective priority. We must avoid anything capable of aggravating existing tensions or creating unnecessary divisions among our people.
“We equally urge our brothers, youths, supporters and members of the public to remain peaceful and avoid inflammatory statements or actions. Our collective interest should remain the peace, unity and progress of Ankpa.
“Let reason prevail. Let dialogue prevail. Let peace prevail.”
The group further appealed to community leaders, government officials, security agencies and other stakeholders to work together towards a peaceful resolution of the matter.
It stressed that responsible engagement, mutual respect and adherence to due process remained the best avenues for resolving disputes and preserving the unity and peaceful coexistence of the people of Ankpa.
AMEFU also called on its members and the wider public to refrain from actions or utterances that could inflame passions, reiterating its commitment to peace, justice and the overall development of Ankpa and Kogi State.
