Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has declared an all-out war against insecurity in the state, launching “Operation Udo Ga Achi” (Peace Must Reign) aimed at tackling criminals, kidnappers, touts, and terrorists.
In a statewide broadcast, Soludo emphasized that security, law, and order are pivotal to his administration’s vision, expressing his resolve to fight criminality head-on. He identified armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and touting as the principal problems causing insecurity in the state.
The governor announced plans to launch a joint security operation, codenamed “Operation Udo Ga Achi,” to tackle the insecurity challenges. He also declared amnesty for repentant criminals, giving them until the end of February 2025 to surrender and lay down their arms.
Soludo warned that his government will begin to revoke lands of any community that harbours criminals and treats members of such communities who provide support to criminals as collaborators. He also stated that any house found to have harboured kidnappers will be confiscated by the government.
The governor’s declaration comes amid growing concerns about insecurity in Anambra State. Residents have reported increased incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism, prompting calls for decisive action from the government.
Soludo’s administration has procured 168 patrol vehicles to support the security agencies in their efforts to combat insecurity. The governor has also pledged to deploy ICT in the fight against insecurity.
While some have welcomed the governor’s declaration, others have expressed scepticism about the effectiveness of the amnesty program. Critics argue that offering amnesty to criminals may be seen as a sign of weakness and could embolden other criminals.
Despite these concerns, Soludo remains committed to restoring peace and security to Anambra State. His administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity will be closely watched in the coming weeks and months.
