Ohanaeze urges South-East governors to establish regional security outfit

DDM News

Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on governors in the South-East to establish a regional security outfit to tackle the growing insecurity across the region.

The group expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation and emphasized the need for decisive action.

In a statement released on Monday by its factional Deputy National President, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze highlighted the urgency of the situation.

The group pointed to the increasing cases of kidnapping, ritual killings, and other criminal activities, stressing that a well-organized security network is essential to restoring peace.

The statement acknowledged the recent efforts of Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, whose security initiative, UDO-GA-ACHI (Let Peace Reign), has made significant strides in tackling criminal syndicates.

Governor Soludo’s approach, which includes the Anambra State Vigilante Group known as AGUNACHEMBA (The Lion that Protects Anambra State), supported by 2,000 intelligence operatives, was praised as an effective model for the entire South-East.

“Ohanaeze believes the success recorded in Anambra should serve as an inspiration for all South-East governors to form a coordinated security outfit,” the statement read.

“The alarming rise in crime, compounded by the unresolved incarceration of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has created an environment where criminal elements operate freely, often in alliance with local witch doctors.”

The organization lamented the increasing commercialization of kidnapping and ritual killings, calling on South-East governors to set aside political differences and unite in addressing the security challenges.

“The situation demands urgent intervention beyond individual state efforts.

We call for a security framework that transcends political affiliations and prioritizes the safety of our people,” Ohanaeze stated.

Warning of severe consequences if the security situation is not addressed, the group gave a one-month ultimatum for action.

“Should the governors fail to act within this period, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will engage relevant security agencies to restore order,” the statement declared.

Furthermore, Ohanaeze emphasized that governors who neglect their constitutional duty as chief security officers of their states would be held accountable.

It also proposed an amnesty program for Biafra agitators and unknown gunmen willing to surrender their arms.

“Many of these individuals, influenced by figures like Simon Ekpa, have been misled into violence.

Offering them a structured amnesty program could be a strategic way to rehabilitate them and reintegrate them into society,” the group noted.

The proposed amnesty would include a defined timeline, allowing for peaceful disarmament while ensuring that any criminals exploiting the situation under the guise of agitation would face full legal consequences.

“This initiative would not only address the root causes of insecurity but also create opportunities for young people who have been driven into crime out of desperation,” Ohanaeze added.

The organization called on all South-East residents to support this security agenda, emphasizing that community cooperation is crucial.

“We urge all stakeholders to embrace peace and back this noble cause.

Our goal is a security framework designed and managed by our people, ensuring that our communities are protected from external and internal threats.”

Ohanaeze Ndigbo concluded its statement with a passionate appeal to those involved in violent activities.

“The time has come to lay down arms and choose peace.

This is a moment for a collective security strategy that safeguards our heritage and restores harmony to the South-East,” it said.

With this call, the organization hopes to mobilize action among South-East governors and other key players in the region, ensuring that security concerns are tackled effectively.

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