Anambra’s Agunechemba enforces mandatory bra, pant rule in public

The streets of Anambra State have undergone a dramatic transformation in recent weeks, following the introduction of Agunechemba, a new security outfit aimed at combating crime and restoring order.

However, the initiative has sparked widespread controversy, with rumors of a government-imposed dress code leading to confusion, compliance, and criticism across the state.

Town criers in various communities had reportedly warned residents that Agunechemba will not tolerate the sight of ladies walking the streets without bras and pants.

This alleged directive has led to a noticeable shift in public behavior, with young women abandoning transparent outfits and youths rushing to hair salons to cut off dreadlocks or remove colored hairstyles.

In Awka, the state capital, the once-common sight of girls in revealing attire around popular areas like Aroma and Abakaliki Street has vanished.

Similarly, young men with sagging trousers or unconventional hairstyles have been seen queuing at salons to adopt more conservative looks.

The sudden surge in demand for haircuts has driven prices up from an average of ₦2,000 to ₦5,000, leaving salon owners overwhelmed but profitable.

While many residents have complied with the alleged dress code, Diaspora Digital Media gathered that others have questioned its relevance in the face of more pressing issues like rising insecurity and economic challenges.

Some youths have accused the government of focusing on trivial matters rather than addressing the root causes of crime, such as unemployment and poverty.

Despite the skepticism, pressure from family members and fear of harassment by Agunechemba operatives have compelled many to adhere to the rumored guidelines.

Reports of individuals being accosted for not wearing bras, pants, or for sporting dreadlocks and colored hairstyles have further fueled compliance, even as the state government denies issuing any such directives.

Government’s clarifications
In response to the growing controversy, the Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has offered clarification, saying although the state government is backing the security outfit’s activities, the advocacy against “indecent dressing” is not a government order.

He clarified that the Agunechemba initiative, established under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, is focused on combating criminal activities such as kidnapping, cyber fraud, and the operations of native doctors and sorcerers who prepare charms for criminals.

Mefor also warned town criers to consult their communities’ Presidents-General before making public announcements, emphasizing that these officials would be held accountable for spreading misinformation.

Governor Soludo’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, echoed these sentiments, describing the rumors as “mischievous and intended to mislead the public while tarnishing the state government’s image.”

He reassured residents that the Soludo administration remains committed to its core agenda of security, economic transformation, human capital development, and urban regeneration.

About Agunechemba

Agunechemba, Anambra State’s newly established security outfit, was created under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025 with the primary objective of addressing rising criminal activities such as kidnapping, cyber fraud, and the operations of native doctors and sorcerers who prepare charms for criminals.

The initiative is part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s broader strategy to enhance security and restore public order in the state.

Since its introduction, Agunechemba has been deployed across various communities, with operatives working alongside local vigilante groups and law enforcement agencies to curb crime.

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