Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has announced a comprehensive security overhaul aimed at combating criminality and restoring peace across the state. Speaking during a media briefing, the Governor unveiled the state’s new security strategy, which will be launched in January 2025. Key highlights of the Governor’s address include the establishment of a robust security outfit, “Operation Udo ga adi,” and a firm warning against aiding or abetting criminal elements.
Key Security Measures Announced:
1.Launch of “Operation Udo ga adi”:
By January 2025, Anambra will inaugurate a new state security outfit designed to tackle insecurity comprehensively.
2.Technology-Driven Surveillance:
Advanced technology will be deployed to monitor every part of the state, including remote areas and bushes, ensuring criminal hideouts are eradicated.
3.Zero Tolerance for Bush Occupancy:
The Governor declared that no individual is permitted to reside in the bushes. “Anyone found in the bushes will be regarded as a criminal and dealt with accordingly,” he stated.
4.Dedicated Reporting Lines:
Citizens will have access to active phone numbers for reporting security concerns, ensuring swift action against criminal activities.
5.Crackdown on Criminal Supporters:
Individuals or groups providing any form of support to criminals, including those claiming to be agitators, will face the same consequences as the criminals themselves.
6.Statewide Stop-and-Search Operations:
Security personnel will conduct routine stop-and-search operations across the state, with mandatory compliance from the public.
7.Responsibility of Community Leaders:
Traditional rulers (Igwes) and community leaders (PGs) must report any criminal camps within their jurisdictions. Failure to comply will result in the government taking over the land where such camps are discovered.
8.Seizure of Properties Linked to Criminal Activities:
Any building used to house kidnapped victims or land used as a camp by unknown gunmen will be confiscated and cleared by the government.
9.Accountability for Supporters of Criminals:
Communities or individuals who support or praise criminals will face strict penalties, with such individuals being treated as accomplices.
10.Focused Clearing of Hotspots:
The government is intensifying its security operations in Ihiala, Orumba North, and Orumba South LGAs, with four Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) actively working in Ihiala and two in the Orumba areas to eradicate criminal elements.
11.Statistics on Arrests:
Over 3,000 suspected criminals, identified as unknown gunmen, have been arrested, with 90% being Igbos and 70% hailing from outside Anambra State.
12.Preparation for a Security Tight State:
Governor Soludo urged citizens to cooperate with the new measures, emphasizing that these actions, though stringent, are necessary to restore order and end criminality.
“The War Must Be Won”
Governor Soludo reiterated his administration’s commitment to making Anambra a secure state, warning that some of these measures might create discomfort but are essential for the greater good. “We are determined to clear Ihiala, Orumba North, and South of criminal elements. The war is ongoing, and it must be won,” he declared.
Residents are advised to support the government’s efforts, as the state moves toward a new era of safety and prosperity.
