Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Government of Anambra State is set to launch security measures known as “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” (Operation Peace Shall Reign)” to curb insecurity in the state and by extension, the South-East.
Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, in a statement he made available to journalists on Tuesday said the exercise will commence this January, 2025.
Mefor said the comprehensive security initiative will integrate advanced surveillance technology, deploy branded vehicles for stop-and-search activities, and train forest guards to work with vigilantes and local authorities.
He also said Operation Udo Ga-Achi is designed to restore peace and stability in the South-East, and that Governor Soludo is committed to ensuring its success.
The commissioner, in the statement, also dismissed speculative reports that Governor Soludo was reluctant to support the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as politically motivated.
He said the misinformation was being peddled by desperate opposition politicians who were intimidated by Soludo’s impressive achievements in office to discredit him.
The commissioner reiterated that the governor had been actively working towards Kanu’s release, hoping his freedom would assist in restoring peace and stability in the South-East.
He stressed the need to look beyond the propaganda and recognise the progress being made and for all to cooperate with the government to deal decisively with insecurity in the state.
Mefor argued that South-East challenges could only be overcome if stakeholders agreed to work together for a safer, more prosperous future for all.
The statement reads: “As we welcome the new year, it has become imperative to address the misinformation circulating in the media space regarding Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s alleged reluctance to support the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This misinformation has been peddled by desperate opposition politicians who are intimidated by Soludo’s impressive achievements in office. In less than three (3) years, he has surpassed his campaign promises, leaving his critics scrambling to discredit him.
“Contrary to the false claims, Governor Soludo has been actively working towards Nnamdi Kanu’s release, as he hopes that Nnamdi Kanu’s release will help restore peace and stability in the South East. He has demonstrated his commitment to this cause through his actions and public statements.
“Notably, Governor Soludo visited Nnamdi Kanu at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility, where he offered to take Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on administrative bail and assured of his availability whenever needed. This gesture underscores Soludo’s willingness to facilitate Kanu’s release and his commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the issues surrounding Kanu’s detention.
“However, Governor Soludo is also deeply concerned about the hijacking of the Biafra agitation by criminals. These individuals have turned the agitation into a lucrative enterprise, engaging in kidnapping, robbery, ritual killings, and other heinous crimes for ransom. This development has not only undermined the legitimacy of the Biafra agitation but has also posed a significant threat to the security and stability of the South East region.
“The hijack of the Biafra agitation by criminals has had severe consequences for the people of the South East. The region has witnessed a surge in violent crimes, including kidnapping, robbery, and ritual killings. These crimes have not only claimed lives but have also caused widespread fear and insecurity among the population. Furthermore, the hijack has undermined the economic development of the region, as investors are reluctant to invest in an environment characterised by violence and insecurity.
“To address the security concerns in the South-East and particularly Anambra, Governor Soludo’s administration is set to launch “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” (Operation Peace Shall Reign) this January. This comprehensive security initiative will integrate advanced surveillance technology, deploy branded vehicles for stop-and-search activities, and train forest guards to work with vigilantes and local authorities. Operation Udo Ga-Achi is designed to restore peace and stability in the Southeast, and Governor Soludo is committed to ensuring its success.”
