By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has condemned the level of violence erupting in the state and the seeming target on security personnel.

The governor who made the condemnation during his Easter broadcast to the state said that the tendency portends grave danger for the peace and security his administration has worked so hard to entrench in the state.

He enjoined stakeholders at all levels of society to call for a stoppage of all forms of aggression against the Police and security agencies in Anambra State.

Obiano said: “The aftermath of the ENDSARS protests is still fresh in our minds with the obvious rise in crime rates following a lull in security activities. A repeat of this, we must not allow!

“As a Government, we remain committed to the safety and security of all living and doing business in the State and we will do our utmost best to ensure the safety of all.

“Also, as politics and its activities manifest in our State in the months ahead, let me urge all actors and participants to eschew violence and be mature in all dealings. Our State is on a consistent rise to greatness and we all have a duty to ensure it doesn't derail as a result of political bitterness.

“I urge the Police, Military and other security agencies in the State to continue to do their duties exceptionally, professionally and in line with the law.”

He said that since the incident, the state security architecture had exerted an extensive effort to ensure the safety of the commissioner who eventually returned home in the early hours of Easter Sunday, 4th April 2021.

“I am therefore happy to announce that the Hon. Commissioner is unhurt, very stable and in good physical and mental condition. No ransom was demanded and none paid for his release.

I have also met with him and in reassured that he is ready to resume duties.

“As you must already know, one of the attackers was gunned down on the spot on that day while five others were arrested afterwards by the security agencies. Our efforts to the glory of God, have proved not to be in vain!” Obiano added.

While thanking all the security agencies and other critical stakeholders who played one role or the other in an effort to free the abducted commissioner, the governor said: “To the family of the Hon Commissioner, nuclear and extended, the Soludo family and all friends who faced the trauma of not knowing his fate these past few days, I ask that we be grateful to God for the Easter gift of his safe return.

“To the families of the slain Police officers, my heart once again, goes out to you. I share in your grief and mourn with you. While I pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased, please be assured that the State Government will not abandon you.”

The governor further assured the public that the Police and relevant agencies are continuing investigations into the Isuofia incident and will not relent until the perpetrators are brought to book.

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