Gov. Soludo Launches “Operation Udo Ga Achi” To Combat Insecurity
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has unveiled plans to launch a joint security operation, codenamed Operation Udo Ga Achi (Let Peace Reign), to address the state’s persistent insecurity challenges.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, Soludo identified armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and touting as the primary threats undermining peace and security in the state.
“When I assumed office, about seven local government areas were under the control of hoodlums, but we confronted them head-on and liberated these communities. Unfortunately, some of these dislodged criminals have regrouped and resumed terrorizing the state,” he said.
Soludo announced several initiatives as part of the operation, including: Deployment of Patrol Vehicles: The state has procured 168 patrol vehicles to be distributed to security agencies.
The governor dismissed claims that the state’s insecurity stems from the continued detention of separatist leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Soludo noted that organized crime groups now use Kanu’s name as a front for their activities, adding, “Kanu and IPOB have repeatedly dissociated themselves from the ongoing kidnappings and criminality. These are organized criminal enterprises, not agitation.”
He further explained, “Many of these criminals are profiting heavily from kidnappings, making millions in ransom. Even if Kanu calls for an end, I doubt they would listen. Criminality has become a lucrative business.”
To curb the resurgence of crime, Soludo announced stringent measures, including:
Revocation of Community Land: Any community harboring criminals will have its land confiscated.
Seizure of Properties: Houses used to shelter kidnappers will be taken over by the government.
Penalizing Collaborators: Community members aiding criminals by providing food or funds will face prosecution as collaborators.
The governor also decried the use of shrines by criminal groups to instill fear and control in local communities.
“We will not relent in our efforts to rid Anambra of insecurity and restore lasting peace. Criminals and their collaborators have no place in our state,” Soludo affirmed.
