Non-indigenes residing in Anambra State have raised the alarm over escalating insecurity, declaring 15 out of the state’s 21 local government areas (LGAs) unsafe for residents and visitors.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Sani and Secretary Chief Adebayo Adewusi appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to urgently declare a state of emergency in the affected areas to address the deteriorating security situation.
Worsening Security in Anambra
The group expressed particular concern over rising criminal activities, even in previously safer areas like Onitsha, which has recently experienced increased kidnappings and violent crimes.
Among the alarming incidents cited was the abduction of the retired Anglican Archbishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Godwin Okpala, who has remained in captivity for nearly a week after being kidnapped in Ezinifite, Aguata LGA.
Identified “No-Go” Areas
The group listed several LGAs and communities they consider unsafe, highlighting specific hotspots:
- 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.
- Awka North LGA: Achalla, Mgbakwu, and nearby communities.
- Awka South LGA: Noted for rampant cult activities.
- Oyi LGA: Nsugbe, Nkwelle, and surrounding areas.
- Onitsha North and South LGAs: Fegge, Odoakpu, 3-3.
- Idemili North and South LGAs: Abatete, Nkpor, Ogidi, Obosi, Oba, Ojoto.
- Ekwusigo LGA: Ozubulu, Oraifite.
Call for Immediate Action
To combat the insecurity, the group recommended the formation of joint security teams comprising the Armed Forces, Police, Civil Defence, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG). They emphasized the need to equip these agencies adequately and provide logistical support, including insurance coverage, to boost their effectiveness.
“These agencies can eliminate the criminals if adequately equipped and motivated,” they stated.
Festive Season Warning
With the Christmas season approaching, the group highlighted the urgency of the situation, warning that if security is not improved, many Anambra residents might avoid returning home for the festivities.
“If the governor wants Anambra people to return and enjoy Christmas, action must be taken immediately,” they stressed.
Rising Tensions and Expectations
The call for a state of emergency underscores the growing fear and tension among residents and non-indigenes alike. They demand decisive action from the state government to restore peace and ensure the safety of lives and property.
Governor Soludo, known for his infrastructure drive, now faces mounting pressure to prioritize security and address the concerns of those living in Anambra. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the state can curb the rising wave of crime and ensure a secure environment for all residents.
I think instead of calling for a state of emergency, maybe more community policing and engagement could help improve the situation.
I think the non-indigenes are exaggerating the safety concerns in Anambra. Lets not jump to conclusions based on their perception.
I think non-indigenes exaggerate the safety concerns in Anambra. Lets not jump to conclusions based on fear-mongering reports.
I think its exaggerated. Anambra is still safe overall. Lets not panic and spread unnecessary fear.
I think we should all just move to Anambra and show those non-Indigenes that the LGAs arent as unsafe as they claim! #challengeaccepted
Lets not provoke unnecessary conflict. Safety matters everywhere. Lets work together for a peaceful community.
I think the non-indigenes are exaggerating. Anambra is safe if you use common sense and avoid risky areas.
I think we should all just arm ourselves and form our own security teams in Anambra. Cant rely on the government anymore.
Thats a dangerous path to take. We need to work with the government for real solutions.
I think this declaration is exaggerated. Anambra is generally safe, we shouldnt overreact based on a few incidents.
I dont get why people are freaking out. Anambra is fine, just stay out of trouble spots. No need for a state of emergency.
You clearly dont understand the gravity of the situation. Ignoring it wont make it disappear.
I think this is all blown out of proportion. Anambra is not as unsafe as theyre making it seem. Lets calm down.
I think we should focus on improving community policing rather than calling for a state of emergency. Lets explore alternative solutions.
State of emergency may be necessary for immediate action. Community policing alone may not suffice.
I think maybe these non-indigenes should try to engage with the local communities instead of just declaring areas unsafe. Integration is key!
Maybe the locals should also make an effort to welcome non-indigenes instead of blaming them.
I think instead of declaring a state of emergency, the focus should be on addressing root causes and building trust with communities.
State of emergency is necessary to address immediate crisis. Root causes can be addressed simultaneously.
I think the focus on non-indigenes declaring Anambra LGAs unsafe is overlooking the larger security issues at play. Lets not ignore the bigger picture here.
I dont buy it. Maybe theyre just exaggerating for attention. Anambra cant be that bad. Lets not jump to conclusions.
Anambras challenges are real. Dismissing them wont make them disappear. Lets face the facts.
I dont buy the hype about Anambra being unsafe. Maybe its just fear-mongering to control the population during the festive season.
I think non-indigenes declaring Anambra LGAs unsafe is exaggerated. Lets not jump to conclusions based on fear.
You clearly havent experienced the reality on the ground. Safety concerns are valid.
I think the non-indigenes should be more supportive and proactive in finding solutions instead of just declaring areas unsafe.
Non-indigenes also face safety concerns. Cooperation is key for all residents to find solutions.
I think the non-indigenes should work together with the locals to improve security, rather than just declaring areas unsafe.
I think these non-indigenes are overreacting. Anambra is not that unsafe. They should chill and enjoy the festive season!
I think the non-indigenes need to adapt to the situation instead of calling for a state of emergency. Lets discuss!
Non-indigenes should not have to adapt to unfair treatment. State of emergency may be necessary.
I think instead of a state of emergency, we should focus on community policing and empowering locals to improve security.
State of emergency is necessary for immediate action against rising crime rates. Prioritize public safety.
I think Anambra should focus on community policing and engagement rather than calling for a state of emergency. Lets empower locals!
State of emergency is needed for immediate action. Community policing alone may not suffice.
I believe this is being blown out of proportion. Lets not generalize based on a few incidents. Every place has its safety challenges.
I think we need to address the root causes of insecurity in Anambra, not just declare a state of emergency. Lets dig deeper!
I think its time to consider implementing a curfew in these areas to improve security. Safety should come first!
I dont buy it! Maybe these non-indigenes are just exaggerating the safety concerns in Anambra. Lets hear from the locals!
I think the non-indigenes are exaggerating the safety concerns in Anambra. Lets not jump to conclusions based on a few opinions.
I think instead of calling for a state of emergency, maybe we should focus on community-led solutions and engagement with locals.