Beneath the solemn skies of Awka, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, delivered a deeply emotional address at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square. The occasion, marked by a blend of gratitude, grief, and determination, brought together government officials, security chiefs, ex-servicemen, and families of fallen heroes to honor those who laid down their lives for Nigeria’s unity and freedom.
“This is a day of sober reflection,” Soludo began, his voice resonating with sincerity. “We honor the memory of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten.” His poignant words struck a deep chord with the audience, serving as both a tribute and a call to action.
The governor’s speech extended beyond remembrance, shedding light on the critical role of security forces in safeguarding the nation and Anambra State in particular. He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Anambra State Vigilante Group, and other security agencies for their relentless efforts in combating terrorism, insurgency, and armed banditry. Highlighting successes in Orumba South and Orumba North, Soludo praised their contributions to neutralizing criminal elements and restoring peace in troubled areas.
“Anambra is grateful, Anambra is appreciative, Anambra will not forget,” he declared, expressing the collective gratitude of the state. However, Soludo didn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the region’s security challenges. Criminal elements, he noted, initially posed as liberators but quickly devolved into kidnappers and bandits, using stolen weapons to wreak havoc.
Citing alarming statistics, the governor revealed that over ₦2 trillion had been paid in ransom in reported kidnapping cases, with unreported incidents likely pushing the figure beyond ₦10 trillion. “Criminality has become a business, but we are determined to put an end to it,” he vowed.
To address this menace, Soludo announced the launch of Operation Udo Ga Achi (Peace Will Reign), set to commence the following Saturday. This initiative, he explained, would intensify efforts to rid the state of criminality and bring lasting peace. He also expressed optimism about the passage of the Homeland Law by the State Assembly, a legal framework designed to prosecute hoodlums and criminal elements more effectively.
The ceremony itself was steeped in symbolism. A parade of disciplined precision, a solemn gun salute, and the laying of wreaths at the cenotaph created an atmosphere of reverence. The release of white doves, representing peace, added a hopeful note to the day’s proceedings.
Governor Soludo’s address wasn’t just about policies and statistics; it was a heartfelt appeal for collective responsibility. “Security of lives and property is the responsibility of everyone,” he stressed, urging communities to adopt a “see something, say something” ethos. He emphasized that intelligence sharing is crucial in the fight against insecurity, calling on citizens to partner with security agencies in safeguarding their communities.
In a deeply emotional moment, Soludo reminded the audience of the human cost of insecurity. “These fallen heroes were fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters. They had dreams, aspirations, and families who still feel the void their absence has left,” he said. “We owe it to them to ensure their sacrifices were not in vain. Let their courage inspire us to fight for a safer, more united Nigeria.”
The ceremony witnessed a minute of silence in honour of the fallen heroes, the national anthem, which echoed with renewed vigor across the square.
For Anambra State, the Armed Forces Remembrance Day was not just a day of mourning—it was a call to unity, resilience, and hope. It reaffirmed a shared resolve to honor the sacrifices of the past by building a future defined by peace, security, and collective progress.
