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UNIZIK PROFS OKIGBO, NWOGBO PLEDGE GREATER COMMITMENT IN THEIR NEW PORTFOLIOS

Michael Ezenwata.

The new dean Faculty of Education, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka campus Prof.Ebele Okigbo has affirmed her resolve to take the faculty to the next level of academic excellence.

Prof.Okigbo gave the indication  in a press statement in Awka.

The academic a celebrated professor of Mathematics Education and a first class best graduating of the department, promised to translate her wealth of experience in her new position.

She urged students of the faculty and matriculants in waiting to take their studies seriously as there is no short cut to success.

Prof.Okigbo recommended punctuality to lectures and hard work as practices that will earn them first class especially if inculcated in their first years in school.

One of her major tasks is to organize a faculty prayer slated for the 21st day of January 2025 to dedicate the faculty to God.

In a related development, another celebrated academic and new director of the Sandwich Unit of Unizik Professor Vivian Nwogbo promised to give her best to elevate the status of the directorate.

Prof.Nwogbo the immediate past dean Faculty of Education urged Sandwich students warming up for the Unizik matriculation slated for the 24th day of January 2025 to take their studies seriously to excel in their chosen disciplines.

She used the forum to appreciate the acting Vice Chancellor of Unizik Prof.Joseph Ikechebelu whose mantra is happy Students happy lecturers and whose elevation has occasioned peace and stability in the university.

ANAMBRA HOMELAND SECURITY LAW 2025 TAKES EFFECT WITH HIGH EXPECTATIONS

Michael Ezenwata

The “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” security network in Anambra State is now in full operation, following the signing of the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

This joint security initiative, comprising a team of 2,000 crack personnel from the Army, Police, Navy, and other security agencies, along with the Agunaechemba Strike Force, will operate across the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. The goal is to restore peace and security to a state affected by criminal elements, largely consisting of non-Anambra hoodlums, many of whom are of Igbo extraction, according to credible statistics.

In an emotionally charged speech at the International Convention Centre in Awka, Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating criminality in the state. He urged communities to take ownership of their localities by helping the government with internal security efforts, including providing valuable information that could lead to the arrest of criminal suspects.

To incentivize cooperation, the governor announced a 5 million Naira reward for anyone who provides information leading to the capture of wanted criminals.

Governor Soludo singled out six communities in Ihiala LGA — Mbosi, Azia, Lilu, Isseke, Orsumoghu, and Ubuluisiuzor — for being particularly notorious, where the activities of criminals are most prevalent. He declared a full-scale war against these hoodlums to restore order and peace to the area.

The governor emphasized that his administration will use both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to combat criminality, offering a period of amnesty for criminals living in the bush. Those who surrender their arms before the end of February will be reintegrated into society.

In their separate remarks, the new state chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, along with several traditional rulers, expressed strong support for Governor Soludo’s bold security initiatives. Traditional rulers from Ihiala, Umuawulu, Abacha, and Umoba Anam, including Igwe Thomas Obidiegwu, Igwe Joel Egwuonwu, Igwe Godwin Odiegwu, and Igwe George Ekwealor, all commended the governor’s decisive action.

Other traditional rulers, including Igwe Christopher Ndibe of Umuerum, Igwe Thomas Ogbonnaya of Owerre Ezukala, Igwe Clifford Okeke of Nawfija, and Igwe S.I. Chidubem of Umumbo, also praised the new security policy, calling it impactful.

Support for the governor’s initiative came from several other distinguished indigenes of Anambra, including Igwe Emmanuel Onyeneke of Ekwulobia, Igwe Maxi Oliobi of Nimo, Igwe Onwuamaeze Ezeani of Neni, Igwe Ofobike Ezeaka of Amichi, Igwe Prof. Charles Anikwenze of Awkuzu, Igwe Augustine Oragwam of Obeledu, and Igwe Nick Obi of Nnobi. Other supporters included Mr. Tony Ezenwaka, Chairman of the Anambra State Civil Service Commission, Comrade Chika Chukwudozie, Chairman of the Anambra State NUT, Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu, Chairman of the Post Primary Schools Service Commission, Barrister Chike Oranye, and Associate Prof. Osita Umeononihu, a medical practitioner based in Awka.

This robust security initiative marks a new chapter in Anambra’s efforts to restore peace and prosperity, with high expectations from all sectors of society.

IT IS FINISHED

*PRESS STATEMENT*

19.01.25

From the Desk of Dr. Ben Nwankwo (Isingidi Orumba)  

Member, Board of Trustees, All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA)  

Yesterday, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, forthrightly responded to the lingering shadows of insecurity that have plagued our beloved state with the launch of the AGUNECHEMBA security outfit and the bold declaration of a ‘war’ codenamed ‘OPERATION UDO GA-CHI’. This decisive action underscores a comprehensive approach to restoring peace and security in Anambra—a testament to the unparalleled commitment of the SOLUTION ADMINISTRATION.

In a time when fear loomed over our communities, threatening to undermine the commendable strides we’ve made in infrastructure development and governance, the initiative launched by Governor Soludo is a clear message: **IT IS FINISHED** for the criminals. Their reign of terror and opportunistic disregard for the law is ended. For the political opposition, who have sought to exploit the insecurity for their gain in the power gain, let this also resound: *”IT IS FINISHED”. Your attempts at tarnishing the record of SOLUTION ADMINISTRATION will falter against the robust actions our governor is undertaking.

Wind back the clock two years and ten months, and one can see a state transforming under the visionary leadership of Prof. Soludo—a leader who not only articulates a vision but executes it with exceptional precision. The AGUNECHEMBA outfit is more than just a security measure. It is a holistic, quality-driven response to the multifaceted challenges we face, ensuring that Anambra State will soon be recognized as the most secure in Nigeria. This is not mere rhetoric; the groundwork has been laid for a renaissance of peace, stability, and economic prosperity.

To the criminals lurking in the shadows: Your time is up. The people of Anambra are no longer shackled by the chains of fear. We are rallying behind our governor, whose leadership transcends politics; he is the embodiment of resolve, ingenuity, and a steadfast commitment to our people. With the backing of the newly signed homeland law and the unwavering support of organizations like APGA, we are poised to reclaim our streets, our markets, and our peace.

As we approach the upcoming elections, the narrative being spun by the opposition will crumble under the weight of our governor’s substantive achievements. Instead of capitalizing on insecurity, they will witness the blooming resurgence of a state vibrant with opportunity—an Anambra ready to welcome investors once more with open arms. The infrastructural revolutions and logistics advancements combined with prudent fiscal governance make our state not just competitive but a benchmark for others to emulate.

Anambra is weary of the muddling-through approaches and infantile experimentation methods that the opposition will bring to the table but has embraced SOLUTION as a tested and trusted way forward. The opposition should hold their peace and save their money because *THERE IS NO VACANCY*. Their efforts to disrupt the progress we have made will fall flat in the face of the solid governance we are now experiencing.

So, let them shut the hell up! Anambra is moving forward, stronger than ever, with a leadership that is committed to our collective well-being.

*Signed*,  

Dr. Ben Nwankwo (Isingidi Orumba)  

Member, Board of Trustees, All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), Member 5th, 7th & 8th National Assembly of Nigeria. 

*After SOLUTION, it is SOLUTION!*

AGỤNECHEMBA IS BORN AND UDO GA-ACHỊ

(A Speech by the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR on the occasion of unveiling of the Anambra Homeland Security Law and Launch of Special Security Operation, “Udo Ga-Achị” on Saturday, 18th January 2025)

1.0 Protocol

Ụmụ Nne m Ndị Anambra!

Yesterday the 17th of January 2025 marked our two years and ten months in office as Governor of Anambra State. True to our promise last month to take decisive actions on security, it is auspicious that we mark this anniversary and begin the new year with the events of today.

Security, law and order remain pivotal to the attainment of our vision of a liveable and prosperous homeland. The massive revolution by our administration in all sectors which are appreciated by Ndi Anambra must be cemented with a robust security system with zero tolerance for criminality. I want to assure you that despite the unique challenges of lucrative criminality adorned with deceptive ideology and propaganda, we are determined to fight criminality and ensure that Anambra becomes the safest state in Nigeria. The Homeland Security Law 2025 which I signed a few minutes ago, the special operation we are launching today (Operation Udo Ga Achi), deployment of technology, plus a gamut of other initiatives especially the massive support of the federal security agencies and citizens’ collective action constitute our comprehensive and sustainable response.

The character and dynamics of criminality in the Southeast and Nigeria have evolved and become hydra-headed, and so our response must be thoughtful, deliberate and comprehensive, involving both the kinetic and non-kinetic agenda. For example, kidnapping for ransom is not new. I recall that my 78-year-old father was kidnapped in 2009 and he spent 15 days with his abductors in the bush. Earlier that year, the oil mogul, Chief Anthony Enukeme (Tonimas), Chief Paul Okonkwo (Pokobros), Chief G.U.O Okeke, etc were kidnapped in the state. It was as if Armageddon had come. My predecessor tackled the menace head-on. However, in about 20 months before we assumed office in March 2022, a variant of the criminal gang under the guise of separatist agitation emerged with command-and-control centres. They killed policemen and soldiers at checkpoints and collected their guns. They attacked and burnt down many police stations. Sadly, most stakeholders kept mute. They set up camps in the bushes and forests and labelled themselves as “liberators”. Most people did not pay attention and very few cared to ask how these people with arms will be feeding from month to month or year to year or how they will be funding their operations.

Finally, the chicken came home to roost. Initially they turned on suspected politicians, killing innocent people without cause. We recall the gruesome murder of Dr. Chike Akunyili and many others in a commando style in crowded places. Candidates for the 2021 governorship election could not campaign freely especially in the south senatorial zone and the candidate for Labor Party, Mr. Obiora Agbasimalo was kidnapped en route to a campaign event and has not been seen until date. No governorship candidate could hold a rally in Ihiala Local government, and election could not hold there on election day. Because most of the kidnappings and killings happened during the political season, most of us misread the situation as being largely politically motivated. Facts emerged later to show that the problem was deeper and structurally more systemic.

On assumption of office, we met almost a war situation, with eight local governments literally under the total control of the criminals. We declared a state of emergency and responded massively: held security summit; inaugurated the Truth Justice and Peace Commission; engaged with multiple stakeholder groups; offered to re-train and re-integrate those in the bush if only they would surrender their arms; etc. We set up a vigilante strike force structure that worked with federal security agencies to root out criminals from our forests and remote areas. Within 12 months, we recovered the eight local governments under total siege.

Over time, some of the criminal elements returned to some locations. Several of the diverse criminal gangs/camps claim to be Biafra agitators. The IPOB has repeatedly issued multiple press statements dissociating itself from the criminals in the bush but Simon Ekpa with his organized criminal gangs continued to wreck untold havoc, with kidnapping for ransom as their main source of financing. From the thousands of arrests so far, about 70% of the criminals are not from Anambra state: we understand that they flock to Anambra because that is where the money is. Second, kidnapping for ransom quickly became the most lucrative criminal enterprise—better than drug trafficking or oil bunkering. The NBS reported that about N2.2 trillion was paid as ransom in 2024. We estimate that for every one Naira reported, there is probably about 5-6 Naira not reported (amounting to more than N10 trillion in ransom payment in 2024. No sector of the economy, with little capital investment could muster that kind of revenue/return). With a culture that celebrates wealth without work and does not ask people for their source of livelihood, even kidnappers and drug barons are also celebrated.

Besides kidnapping and armed robbery, there are other related challenges which reinforce each other—cultism, drug epidemic, land grabbing and touting. Add to these the warped ideology and value system that increasingly celebrates ‘magical wealth’ (ego mbute) plus the resurgence of criminal idolatry which offers the criminals a sense of invincibility and hence their dare devil brutal activities. Idolatry is the fastest growing religion in the Southeast. Because these criminals in the bush have converted to idolatry, there is a serious clash of religions to the extent that it is no longer sacrilegious to kidnap men of God or even Reverend Sisters. The pointed and vicious threat to Christianity in the Southeast is not yet appreciated by many. Our various security agencies— the Police, DSS, Army, Navy, Airforce, Civil defence, as well as our Vigilante and other special forces— are doing their best to confront these crimes under the existing laws.

What has become evident is that for systematic long-term solution, we need to strengthen the legal framework as well as the institutional organization, logistical capabilities, social re-engineering and citizens mass action. The Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 attempts to provide a framework to progress along the above pillars. It not only establishes our new vigilante architecture (Agunechemba), but also provides a framework for community/citizens ownership and participation in the sustainable security and social re-engineering of our homeland. Agunechemba at the community and local government levels underscore the point that most cases of insecurity are local. The State Agunechemba is a strong strike/intervention force that will be agile and mobile, underscoring that effective kinetic architecture will require a simultaneous interplay of bottom-up and top-bottom forces. In sum, Agunechemba assists/complements the federal security forces especially the police. But brute force will probably address about 50% of the challenges, as the first and necessary step. We can’t defeat warped ideology and value system with guns alone. Over the medium to long term, we need to redeem the soul of our society by reinventing our fundamental values of enterprise/hard work, compassion and integrity—as the foundation for sustainable security, law and order. We will not only ramp up our civic and social reformation campaigns but also seriously reward and celebrate those who distinguish themselves in the virtues that define us. A society ultimately becomes what it celebrates. We cannot allow the 0.01% of our society who are criminals to define the 99.99% of us. Ndi Anambra are known for enterprise and excellence and we must completely take back our homeland. We invite you to read the new law carefully. It should be the Handbook for every citizen and resident of Anambra state. It should be discussed in schools, markets, churches, communities, motor parks, etc.

We should deepen and strengthen what we are doing that work. For example, Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad aka SASA, a body formed in October 2023, is living up to its established mandate which requires they get touts off the streets, transport environment and markets, and is on a stranglehold mission on these touts and drug peddlers. They have picked over 3,000 of such criminals. Upper Iweka and environs can breathe better now. We shall work with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to implement the National Drug Control Masterplan, which is a comprehensive framework for controlling drug related issues across the country, towards developing a formidable strategy against drug related crimes across all 21 local government areas and all communities in the state. Meanwhile, our new Homeland Security law requires the forfeiture of any property used for manufacture, use or sale of hard drugs to the state government. I have signed a number of relevant laws that will facilitate prosecution of touts and drug dealers.

Today, we launch a Special intervention force code named: “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” which translates to Operation Peace Shall Prevail. This special intervention, as an emergency action, complements regular policing by upscaling intelligence gathering, reward whistleblowers, enhance rapid response, and urgently root out the criminals from any/every camp in Anambra state. It will also have special task forces on drugs, touting, cultism, and criminal idolatry. We will ramp up our civic and social reformation, and we invite the clergy, communities, teachers, and social crusaders to join in this campaign. They will be active in all nooks and crannies of the state, with patrols and pin-down stop-and-search operations as necessary.

We are investing heavily in logistical support. We are unveiling some 200 vehicles made fit for purpose to aid operations and many more will be procured soon. This special force will have some 2,000 personnel— police, army, navy, civil defence, DSS, Agunechemba, plus other ‘special forces’. We are mainstreaming technology. We have installed best-in class Tracking System; emplacing a Command-and-Control system which enhances the use of voice, video and data in security management; deploying AI-powered surveillance cameras which we intend to cover most communities in Anambra; etc. Our State Call Centre is enabled, with the toll-free lines 5111 and 08002200008. Another platform run by the Nigerian Communication Commission has the call line 112 for emergency communication.

Operation Udo Ga – Achi shall also be supported by the State’s recently established independent communication network which enables security personnel to communicate flawlessly using walkie talkies.  We need people in the communities to give information to security agencies. Where you feel information given will be used against you, relay such information through our phone lines in Anambra State Call Centre. We will also be reviewing possible assistance to the existing Correctional Centres to expand their facilities and will embark on building the State’s Correctional centres. In partnership with the FGN, communities, patriotic Ndi Anambra and corporations, we intend to gradually re-build the 28 divisional police offices that were burnt down by the hoodlums.

Let’s begin the implementation of the Homeland Security law immediately. We call on all communities (traditional rulers, president-generals, etc) to read the law and set up the relevant security governance structures urgently. We plan to start paying monthly security support/grant to communities to augment their investment in security. The Mayors of respective local governments should also act urgently. We will work with the Commissioner of Police and DSS to identify the top 10 LGAs with history of violent crimes. As communicated to the DPOs and Area Commanders, we will pay a monthly bonus of N10 million for every month that any of these LGAs records zero violent crimes. We will map out communities and also design a reward system. In the meantime, we encourage each community to design and execute its own “cleansing or restoration programme”. A partnership of the church and traditional institutions/town unions might aid the process. For whistleblowers, anyone that gives us credible information that leads to the arrest of any kidnapper/armed robber or information that leads to rounding up of criminals in a camp will be paid a bounty of any amount up to a maximum of N5 million (depending on the class of criminal).

Before we conclude, let me reiterate our extension of hand of friendship and amnesty to kidnappers, cultists, drug dealers and other categories of criminals to surrender themselves, with their weapons and my government will ensure that they are rehabilitated and empowered to become productive citizens. All persons wishing to take advantage of this window should register at the Office of the Security Adviser to the Governor. This window remains open until February 28, 2025.

Let me now thank all citizens and friends of Anambra State who have contributed to the State Security Trust Fund. I salute the courage of some clergy who have stood up to call out the systemic monster that is upon us.  I want to also appreciate all those who devote their time, talent and resources to the security of their various communities. I salute particularly those from Ihiala local government. Currently, we have four FOBs stationed in various locations in Ihiala. There are ongoing clearance operations — and we are determined that the people of Ebonesie—Orsumoghu, Lilu, Isseke, Mbosi, etc and indeed the entire Ihiala local government must be totally liberated from these criminals. I must specially thank the FGN and the various security agencies for their commitment and support in this struggle to rid our state of organized armies of criminals.

Security is our collective responsibility.  Government alone cannot do it. Federal security agencies alone cannot do it. Sustainable security in our homeland requires full scale involvement of responsible citizenship. These criminals are our brothers, sisters, husbands, relations, friends, etc. They are not spirits. They live among us, and we know them. The fact is that 99% of these criminals arrested in Anambra since my 34 months in office are Igbos.  We are fighting a different kind of organized armies of criminals – a kind that Anambra has never seen before. But we must prevail. We must all collectively confront the warped ideology and agitation that lead many among us to view security personnel as the enemy, and the criminals as the liberators. Those who contribute food and money and send to the criminals in the bushes are part of the problem, and we will begin to treat them as collaborators/criminals. I call on everyone—the town unions, clergy, traditional rulers and all civil society organizations to join in deconstructing the dangerous narratives that legitimize this criminality. For our long-term survival, we must rise up and fight together. If you see or know something, say or do something! Silence means complicity. Complaint is not enough. Every resident or citizen of Anambra must every day ask what he/she has done that day to enhance security and prosperity of the homeland. Only collective action will guarantee sustainable success.

On the part of government, be rest assured that we are determined to take the criminals head-on and quadruple our efforts in security. We are ready to fight. Be vigilant. The next few months will be turbulent. The criminals will seek out and strike at soft targets to test our will. We are in a marathon race, and not a sprint. God Almighty who sees our hearts and works will grant us victory. Anambra will win!

God bless Anambra State and Nigeria!

ANAMBRA: NSCDC COMMANDANT COMMENDS SOLUDO, AUDI FOR THEIR UNFLINCHING SUPPORT TO THE COMMAND 

By Juliana Nwachukwu  :

The State Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, Commandant Maku Olatunde has commended Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Commandant General of NSCDC and Governor Chukwuma Soludo, for their unflinching support and guidance which provided the command with the wherewithal to deliver on its mandates, promising that the command will remain resolute in delivering on its core  mandates in the year 2025.

This was contained in a press release by the Head and Tactical Ops NSCDC Anambra State Command, SC Okadigbo Edwin.

According to him, Maku made the appreciation while accessing the performance of the command in the year 2024 and also urged personnel to demonstrate a strong work ethics and commitment to excellence in their duties. 

He noted that the call to action was made at the first muster parade/ strategic management  team  tactical digest of the command at the state Command Headquarters, Awka.

He further said that Anambra NSCDC boss highlighted the need for personnel to sustain the tempo in 2025, saying that the command has outlined operational strategies in line with the NSCDC core mandates including protection of Critical National,  State and Local Government Assets.

“The Infrastructure, intense monitoring and supervision of private guards companies, effective protection of schools through the safe school project, elimination of Farmers Herders clashes, stoppage of all illegal mining activities, reduction in adulteration of petroleum products  and eradication of petroleum products black market racketeering.

“Comdt. Maku encouraged Area Commanders and Divisional Officers  to proactively engage relevant stakeholders within their jurisdiction through effective impact partnership, focusing on information gathering to ensure reduction of crime and criminality to the barest minimum.

“According to him, priority will be given to activities aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the Corps and other sister security agencies leveraging on intelligence sharing and tactical plans to improve operational efficiency.

“He unveiled plans to enhance the capabilities of personnel through specialized workshops, seminars, and training programs designed to equip personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address emerging security challenges in the state.

“The NSCDC Anambra State Command helmsman urged personnel to gear up for the challenges ahead, reaffirming their commitment to excellence and accountability while upholding the highest standards of performance, rules of engagement, standard operating procedures, integrity, and professionalism, as the Corps strives to maintain peace and security in Anambra State .

“He appreciated the media for their support in publicizing the activities of the command, admonishing them to continue as partners with the NSCDC in the task of nation building.”

* Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *

ANAMBRA HOMELAND SECURITY LAW 2025: A BOLD STEP TOWARDS ENHANCING SECURITY

By Chizoba Okeke  :

The Chairman, House Committee on Media and Publicity, Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon Ejike Okechukwu, has described the State Homeland Security Law 2025, establishing Agunechemba security outfit as a comprehensive framework designed to combat insecurity and restore confidence in the state’s safety mechanisms.

Speaking at a press briefing after the passage of the bill, Hon Ejike said the law delegates significant responsibilities to the Presidents General (PGs) of each communities in the state, thereby empowering them to play pivotal roles in maintaining law and order. 

He said that under the law, PGs are mandated to submit monthly reports detailing suspicious activities, criminal incidents, and relevant intelligence from their communities as well include crucial information such as the identities, addresses, phone numbers, and whereabouts of individuals allegedly involved in criminal activities.

He maintained that the law also imposes responsibilities on hoteliers, landlords, and other property owners to install modern surveillance technologies, including CCTV cameras, to monitor activities within their premises and to ensure proper documentation and identification of individuals lodging in their facilities. 

Hon Ejike also said that one of the standout provisions of the law is the outright seizure of properties discovered to be involved in the manufacturing of illicit drugs, while the law prescribes various degrees of imprisonment and fines for offenders, depending on the severity of their crimes.

In their reactions, the Majority Leader of the House, who represents Ekwusigo Constituency, Hon Ikenna Ofodeme and member representing Aguata Constituency II, Hon Tony Muobike, said that every crime committed under the law will be met with severe punishment and that religious establishments are also under scrutiny, as the leaders of such institutions will now be held accountable for any crimes committed under their watch.

*Chizoba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

GOVERNOR SOLUDO FELICITATES CHIEF EMEKA ANYAOKU ON HIS 92ND BIRTHDAY

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has expressed hearty felicitations to Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON, CFR, CON, a distinguished African diplomat, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, elder Nigerian statesman, and foremost Anambra State personage, on the occasion of his 92nd birthday on January 18, 2025. 

In his congratulatory message, Governor Soludo enthused that Chief Anyaoku’s illustrious career as a diplomat of global repute has been an enduring legacy of reference for generations of Nigerians. 

He meritoriously served for years in Nigeria’s foreign missions, the United Nations, and later as Commonwealth of Nations Secretary-General. He championed the ideals of democracy, human rights, and development across the Commonwealth. 

His relentless pursuit of peace, justice, and good governance left a lasting impact on Africa and global international relations. Indeed, it is a tribute to his continuing impact that the Obosi-born statesman still serves as a vice-president of the Royal Commonwealth Society and traditionally recognized by his home community as the Adazie of Obosi and Ugwumba of Idemili 

The Governor also extolled Chief Anyaoku’s contributions to Anambra State as unquantifiable, confirming that he has consistently served as a role model and mentor to many successive leaders of the state, inspiring them to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to the society. 

Indeed, his vast experience, wisdom, and counsel continue to be invaluable assets to the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Therefore, on behalf of the government and the good people of Anambra State, Governor Soludo wishes Chief Emeka Anyaoku a very happy birthday, with prayers for his continued good health, happiness, and many more years of fulfilment.

Signed:

*Christian Aburime*

Press Secretary to the Governor

January 18, 2025

CHIEF MATHIAS ANOHU PASSES ON

The death has been formerly announced of Chief Mathias Chidi Anohu, a former Commissioner and Permanent Secretary in Anambra State.

This was contained in a statement issued on behalf of the family by Sir Victor Anohu on Friday.

The statement read, “With profound gratitude to the Almighty God for an exceptional sojourn on earth, the Anohu Family of Umuezedam Ubahu Okija announces the passing of their beloved patriarch, Chief Dr. Mathias Chidi Anohu. He joined the saints on Monday, January 6, 2025, at the age of 84.

“A distinguished pharmacist, accomplished public servant, and statesman, Chief Dr. Mathias Chidi Anohu dedicated his life to service and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on his community and beyond. 

“He served Anambra State with distinction. He was appointed Permanent Secretary for Education in 1998 during the government of Group Captain Rufai Garba as Military Administrator of Anambra State and served as Commissioner 1, Anambra State Civil Service Commission during the administration of the late Dr. Chinweoke Mbadinuju as governor of Anambra State. He earned widespread respect for his unwavering principles throughout his public service life.

“Chief Dr. Mathias Anohu is survived by his wife, Dr. Virgy Anohu, his sons, Engr. Victor Anohu and Hon. Emeka Anohu, his daughters Chinelo, Chinwe, Chinenye, and Chioma, as well as his brothers, sisters, and grandchildren, who will carry on his enduring legacy of integrity and discipline. 

“Details of his Final Rites of Passage will be communicated in due course.”

GOVERNOR SOLUDO UNVEILS ANAMBRA HOMELAND SECURITY LAW, LAUNCHES “OPERATION UDO GA-ACHI”

*PRESS STATEMENT*

Awka, Anambra State – January 18, 2025

In a major bid to tackle the security challenges facing Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has unveiled the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 and launched a special security operation code-named “Operation Udo Ga-Achi”.

The Governor, who signed the Homeland Security Law 2025 earlier today, stated that the law provides a framework for community/citizens’ ownership and participation in sustainable security and social re-engineering.

According to Governor Soludo, “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” is a special intervention force that complements regular policing, and is designed to upscale intelligence gathering, reward whistleblowers, enhance rapid response, and urgently root out criminals from every camp in Anambra State.

The Governor noted that the security challenges facing the state are complex and hydra-headed, requiring a comprehensive and sustainable response. He emphasized that the state government is determined to fight criminality and ensure that Anambra becomes the safest state in Nigeria.

Key components of the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 include:

– Establishment of a new vigilante architecture, Agunechemba, to assist and complement federal security forces

– Deployment of technology, including tracking systems, command-and-control systems, and AI-powered surveillance cameras

– Establishment of a State Call Centre with toll-free lines

– Payment of monthly security support grants to communities

– Payment of a monthly bonus of N10 million to Divisional Police Offices that record zero violent crimes

The Governor also announced that the state government will review assistance to existing Correctional Centres and embark on building new ones. He further stated that the government will work with the Commissioner of Police and DSS to identify top LGAs with violent crime histories.

Governor Soludo called on communities to set up security governance structures urgently and encouraged each community to design and execute its own “cleansing or restoration programme.”

He also reiterated the state government’s extension of hand of friendship and amnesty to kidnappers, cultists, drug dealers, and other categories of criminals, urging them to surrender their arms and embrace rehabilitation.

The Governor emphasized that security is a collective responsibility and called on all citizens to support the efforts of the state government in ensuring the safety and security of Anambra State.

Signed:

Law Mefor, PhD. 

Commissioner for information, Anambra State

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