Awka, Anambra State – Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has attributed the growing insecurity in Anambra State to cultural and systemic issues, including the excessive pursuit of wealth, locally known as ego mbute, the resurgence of idolatry, and a distorted value system that glorifies criminality. In a detailed statement, Soludo clarified that criminal elements, not IPOB or herdsmen, are primarily responsible for the surge in violence and kidnappings.
He also announced that his administration, in collaboration with the Federal Government, will rebuild 28 divisional police stations destroyed by hoodlums. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance security infrastructure and restore order in the state.
Soludo explained that Anambra has become an attractive hub for criminal enterprises because of its economic vibrancy. According to him, 70% of the criminals arrested in the state are non-indigenes, drawn by the high profitability of ransom-driven kidnappings, which have surpassed drug trafficking and oil bunkering as the most lucrative criminal enterprises. Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Soludo noted that N2.2 trillion was paid in ransom in 2024, with unreported cases likely pushing the figure beyond N10 trillion.
The governor expressed alarm over the rapid growth of idolatry in the Southeast, describing it as the fastest-growing “religion” in the region. Criminals hiding in the bush have turned to idol worship, believing it grants them invincibility and emboldens their violent acts. He decried the societal glorification of wealth without questioning its source, lamenting how even kidnappers and drug barons are celebrated.
To address these challenges, Soludo launched Operation Udo Ga-Achi, a special intervention force comprising 2,000 personnel from the police, military, vigilantes, and other security agencies. This force will focus on intelligence gathering, rapid response, and dismantling criminal camps.
The state government has enacted the Homeland Security Law 2025, which establishes the Agunechemba vigilante system and mandates community participation in security efforts. This law also includes strict measures, such as the forfeiture of properties linked to drug-related crimes, to deter criminal activities.
In addition to deploying technological advancements like AI-powered surveillance cameras and a state-of-the-art Command-and-Control system, the government has set up a toll-free emergency call centre to encourage citizens to report crimes anonymously.
Soludo also called on religious leaders, educators, and community influencers to join in a statewide campaign to restore moral values and combat societal decay.
