- Anambra Governor Launches New Security Operation, Calls for Collective Action Against Criminal Gangs
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed skepticism about the belief that releasing Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), would resolve the insecurity plaguing the South-East region.
Addressing journalists at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia on Tuesday, Soludo argued that criminal elements had hijacked the Biafran struggle and were exploiting Kanu’s name to justify organized crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism.
“The so-called agitators have transformed into organized criminal gangs,” Soludo stated. “They hide in forests, kidnap citizens for ransom, and justify their actions under the guise of Biafra. This is not about liberation; it’s about greed and lawlessness.”
He revealed that over 99% of criminals arrested in Anambra in the past two years were Igbo, with more than 70% being non-indigenes of the state. According to him, the current wave of violence is driven by greed, with criminals severing ties with any genuine liberation movement.
“Even if Nnamdi Kanu is released today, I doubt these criminals would listen to him,” Soludo said. “They now pursue wealth, not liberation. They have become enemies of the very people they claim to protect, attacking and killing their own.”
The governor criticized some communities for shielding criminals and treating them as heroes while perceiving security agencies as adversaries. “Our people know these criminals. In some communities, locals contribute food to sustain them in the forests. How do we combat insecurity when criminals are celebrated?” he asked.
To address the growing insecurity, Soludo announced a new security initiative, Operation Udo Ga Chi (Operation Peace Shall Reign), set to launch after January 25. The program will involve deploying 163 branded vehicles for stop-and-search activities and integrating advanced surveillance technologies to track and neutralize criminals hiding in forests.
The initiative will combine kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, with trained forest guards collaborating with vigilantes and local government authorities to reclaim Anambra’s forests. Soludo also reiterated the availability of an amnesty program, which will remain open until the end of February, urging criminals to surrender.
Calling for collective action, the governor appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and residents to cooperate with security agencies in securing the region. “If you see something, say something,” he emphasized. “Insecurity is a monster that we must confront together. Anambra will no longer be a haven for criminals masquerading as freedom fighters.”
Soludo expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and security agencies for their support and reaffirmed his administration’s determination to rid Anambra of criminal elements.
