The chairman of Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi, Emmanuel Ajah, has banned all forms of public gatherings, including media coverage, from September 26 to September 30.

Mr Ajah also banned musical entertainments and cultural displays, amongst others during the period.

The action is contained in a statement issued in Abakaliki and made available to journalists on Friday.

He stated that the measure became necessary, following a spike in security breaches and serious security threats to the peaceful co-existence among the people of Ihie Autonomous Community.

“The ban is within any place in lhie Community or any of the four kindreds that make up lhie.

“It is unhealthy to hold any public gathering amidst the hydra-headed crises rocking the community now.

“The ban on the planned new yam festival of the community and any other socio-cultural activities scheduled to mark the 2024 new yam festival shall be binding on the traditional rulers council and youth wing, among others.

“No coronation shall take place as there is no festival holding.

“There shall be no cultural dance. No DJ shall play, no media coverage of any gathering, and no decoration of places,” the council boss said.

He also warned that any person or group that violated the security order would be treated as an enemy of the government and made to face the full weight of the law.

(NAN)