Non-indigenes living in Anambra State have raised alarms over escalating insecurity, labeling 15 of the state’s 21 local government areas (LGAs) as unsafe.
The group, represented by Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Sani and Secretary Chief Adebayo Adewusi, has called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to declare a state of emergency in the affected regions.
The group expressed deep concern over the worsening security, particularly in Onitsha, which had previously been considered a safe area.
Recently, Onitsha has seen a surge in criminal activities, including kidnappings.
They cited several instances of high-profile abductions, such as the case of the retired Anglican Archbishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Godwin Okpala, who was kidnapped in Ezinifite, Aguata LGA, and has been held captive for nearly a week.
The group outlined a number of “no-go” zones across various LGAs, 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
Awka North LGA: Achalla, Mgbakwu, and nearby communities
Awka South LGA: Known for active cult-related 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
In response to the escalating violence, the group urged the state government to establish joint security teams, including the Armed Forces, Police, Civil Defence, DSS, and the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG), with proper support and equipment to combat the growing criminal activity.
The group stressed the need for swift action, especially ahead of the holiday season, stating that urgent intervention is required to ensure residents’ safety and allow for a peaceful Christmas.
“If the governor wants Anambra people to return and enjoy Christmas, immediate action is necessary,” they said.
