Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has offered a chance for amnesty to individuals involved in criminal activities such as kidnapping, cultism, drug trafficking, armed robbery, car theft, and other forms of criminality in the state.
Governor Soludo made the announcement on Tuesday at a briefing with journalists at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, where he addressed the state’s security situation ahead of the 2024 Christmas and New Year celebrations.
He emphasized that his administration is ready to grant amnesty to any criminal who voluntarily surrenders their weapons and repents.
He assured that individuals who choose to take advantage of the amnesty program will be rehabilitated and empowered to reintegrate as productive members of society.
Those interested in the amnesty are required to register with the office of the Governor’s Security Adviser, and the window for this opportunity will remain open until February 2025.
Governor Soludo reflected on the security challenges his administration inherited, revealing that at the beginning of his tenure, eight local government areas in the state were heavily controlled by criminal elements.
However, through coordinated efforts, including the establishment of a vigilance strike force working with federal security agencies, these areas were reclaimed.
Despite the progress, criminal activities, including kidnapping and killings, have resurfaced in some regions.
The governor identified four major security concerns currently affecting the state: kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and a growing drug epidemic.
He also mentioned the troubling resurgence of criminal idolatry, which provides a sense of protection for criminals.
To combat these issues, Governor Soludo announced the launch of a comprehensive security initiative called Operation Udo Ga Achi (meaning “Operation Peace Must Prevail”), which is set to roll out by the end of January 2025.
The plan includes the donation of 163 vehicles to security agencies, the installation of surveillance cameras in key areas, and the deployment of 20 vigilante personnel and forest guards in each community.
He also called for a shift in public perception, urging citizens to see security agents as allies, not enemies.
Governor Soludo called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, town union representatives, and civil society organizations to collaborate with the government in the fight against insecurity.
He also appealed to rural communities to stop providing support to criminals and urged residents to report criminal activities via the 5111 toll-free line.
The governor reassured citizens that efforts are underway to ensure a secure holiday season and expressed appreciation for the federal government and security commanders for their contributions to the state’s safety.
