The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed grave concerns over the escalating insecurity in Anambra State, following recent declarations by non-indigenes that 15 out of the state?s 21 local government areas are unsafe. HURIWA described the development as a clear indication of the failure of Governor Chukwuma Soludo?s administration in its primary responsibility to ensure the security of lives and property.

HURIWA?s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, noted with dismay that the increasing wave of kidnappings, armed robbery, and other violent crimes in Anambra State is undermining the constitutional mandate of government as enshrined in Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). The provision states unequivocally that the ?security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.?

The reaction follows statements from a group of non-indigenes residing in Anambra, who, through their chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Sani, and secretary, Chief Adebayo Adewusi, declared vast parts of the state as no-go areas due to worsening insecurity. ?Reportedly, the group particularly lamented the deteriorating situation in Onitsha, once considered a relatively safe haven, now under siege by kidnappers and other criminals. They highlighted the abduction of retired Anglican Archbishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Godwin Okpala, who has been held captive for almost a week, as emblematic of the state?s dire security challenges.

?The group identified ?no-go? areas in several local government areas, including Orumba Area (Ogbunka, Umunze, Ajali), Aguata LGA (Ezinifite, Uga, Umuchu), Ogbaru LGA (Ogbe-Ukwu near Iyiowa, Okoti, Ogwuaniocha, Ossomalla, Atani), Ihiala LGA (Ihiala town, Mbosi, Azia, Uli, Amorka, parts of Okija), Nnewi South LGA (Ukpor, Osumenyi, and surrounding areas), Idemili North and South LGAs (Abatete, Nkpor, Ogidi, Obosi, Oba, Ojoto), and Ekwusigo LGA (Ozubulu, Oraifite).

?The group?s call for joint security operations, involving the Armed Forces, Police, Civil Defence, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Anamb?a Vigilante Group (AVG), reflects the desperation of residents seeking safety and stability?, Onwubiko highlighted.

HURIWA strongly criticized Governor Soludo?s administration for its inability to address these security challenges effectively, stressing that it is disheartening that while the government touts its achievements in physical infrastructure, the fundamental duty of safeguarding lives and property is being flagrantly neglected. HURIWA argued that the progress made in areas such as road construction and other infrastructural improvements pales into insignificance if citizens cannot live and move freely without fear of attack. ?Governance is fundamentally about protecting lives. Any government that fails in this regard has failed completely,? HURIWA asserted.

The association further criticized the apparent lack of strategic coordination among the state?s security apparatus and the inadequate support provided to local vigilante groups, which are often the first line of defense in rural communities.

HURIWA outlined several urgent steps for the Anambra State Government to take in addressing the worsening security situation. These include establishing a robust joint task force comprising the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, DSS, and Anambra Vigilante Group. ?This task force must be adequately equipped, motivated, and given clear operational mandates to dismantle criminal syndicates across the state. Providing extensive training, modern equipment, and insurance coverage for community vigilante groups is also necessary, as their grassroots presence is critical for intelligence gathering and rapid response to security threats,? HURIWA suggested.

The association recommended investing in state-of-the-art surveillance technology, including drones and CCTV cameras, to monitor high-risk areas and provide real-time data to security agencies. HURIWA called for public-private partnerships to fund security initiatives, emphasizing that the private sector has a vested interest in ensuring a safe environment for commerce and investment.

Addressing the root causes of insecurity through social intervention programs aimed at job creation and youth empowerment was another key recommendation by HURIWA, underlining that many of the criminal elements emerge from disenfranchised and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, HURIWA urged the state government to work with the judiciary to ensure swift prosecution of arrested criminals, as the perception of impunity fuels criminal activities.

HURIWA emphasized that Governor Soludo must take full responsibility for the deteriorating security situation in Anambra. Leadership is about accountability. The governor must act decisively to reclaim Anambra from the clutches of criminals. The association urged the state government to implement these recommendations urgently, particularly as the festive season approaches. ?The governor must ensure that Anambra citizens and residents can enjoy a safe and secure Christmas. The time for action Is now?, HURIWA tasked.

While acknowledging the infrastructural strides made by the Soludo administration, the association insisted that these achievements are rendered meaningless in the absence of security. ?The state government must prioritize the safety of its people to restore public confidence and ensure sustainable development?, HURIWA concluded.

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