Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has reported that his administration has successfully eradicated over 60 criminal hideouts within the state as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance security and re-establish normalcy.
Governor Soludo highlighted the severe economic repercussions experienced across the Southeast due to the sit-at-home directives, which he attributed to the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He noted that these directives led to a significant diversion of investments and business activities away from the region.
However, the governor confirmed that economic activities have seen a notable resurgence following the end of the sit-at-home protests. He specifically mentioned the Onitsha Main Market, where more than 45,000 businesses resumed operations on Monday.
Speaking to reporters after a private meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja on Wednesday, Soludo explained that his government has deployed a local vigilante force, known as Agunechemba, along with anti-cultism and anti- touting units, to combat criminal elements in Anambra.
"Since I took office, we have dismantled approximately 62 criminal camps in Anambra, and we are committed to this task without pause. Anambra aims to be recognized as the safest state, or at least among the safest, in the nation, and security is paramount," Soludo stated.
He further indicated that the state witnessed a considerable return of its residents during the recent Christmas festivities, viewing this as a positive reflection of renewed confidence in the state's security situation.
When questioned about the fate of individuals apprehended from these dismantled camps, the governor refrained from disclosing specific details, but reaffirmed that all criminal elements have been effectively apprehended or neutralized.
"I prefer not to share the specifics of their outcomes. The crucial point is that those 62 camps are no longer operational – they have been completely eliminated," he asserted.
Soludo characterized the Monday sit-at-home policy as detrimental to both the economy and society, emphasizing that each lost Monday represented approximately 20% of the potential working week for informal sectors.
He pointed out the substantial financial losses incurred by traders and the broader regional economy due to the prolonged closure of Onitsha Main Market, which is recognized as one of West Africa's largest commercial centers.
According to the governor, the market's recent reopening has been met with widespread celebration, as thousands of traders have returned to engage in commercial activities.
Soludo also outlined plans for the redevelopment and modernization of Onitsha Main Market, pledging to restore its former prominence as a leading commercial hub in the West African sub-region.
The governor clarified that his engagement with the President was not related to any specific security challenges, as the state government routinely handles security matters.
Reporting by Deji Elumoye in Abuja.
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!