Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has voiced doubts regarding the potential impact of releasing Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on the rising insecurity issues plaguing the South-East region.
During a press conference at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, Soludo contended that the genuine Biafran movement has been co-opted by criminals who exploit Kanu’s name to engage in organized crime, worsening the security landscape.
Despite numerous appeals from influential figures and organizations in the area advocating for Kanu’s release, based on the belief that it could help stabilize the insecurity, Soludo remained unconvinced. “The so-called agitators have morphed into organized criminal syndicates,” he remarked.
“They operate from the forests, abducting innocent individuals for ransom, cloaking their misdeeds in the guise of Biafran advocacy. This is not about liberation anymore; it’s pure criminality. They have become addicted to violence, and their pursuit is now monetary gain.”
He elaborated that under the pretense of agitation, many individuals are committing armed robberies, kidnappings, and other violent acts, which are entirely disconnected from a true liberation agenda.
“Kanu and the IPOB have consistently distanced themselves from these unlawful elements,” he stated. “Even if Kanu were released today, it’s doubtful they would heed his call, as their focus has shifted from liberation to accumulating wealth. They have turned into foes of the very people they claim to defend. Who are they truly fighting for when they harm their own kin?”
Soludo also shared troubling statistics, revealing that over 99% of those arrested for crimes in Anambra over the past two years are Igbo, with 70% being non-residents of the state. “These criminals are our own people—brothers, cousins, and neighbors,” he lamented. “It’s tragic that in some areas, communities provide resources to support these criminals hiding in the woods. How can we combat insecurity when the public venerates criminals as heroes and views law enforcement as adversaries?”
The governor criticized the complicity of certain community members who protect these criminals, exacerbating the security crisis. He urged a shift in perspective, calling on residents to stop seeing security forces as enemies and instead view those engaging in criminal behavior as threats to their safety.
“Insecurity is a challenge that requires a united front,” Soludo emphasized. “If you observe suspicious activity, report it. Anambra will no longer tolerate criminals masquerading as freedom fighters.”
To combat the growing insecurity, Soludo introduced a new state-wide security initiative named ‘Operation Udo Ga Chi’ (Operation Peace Shall Reign), set to launch after January 25. The initiative will feature the deployment of 163 branded vehicles for stop-and-search operations, the integration of advanced surveillance technology to monitor criminal activity, and the training of forest guards to work alongside local vigilante groups and authorities.
“We are enhancing our security strategies with both active and preventive measures,” Soludo stated. “I urge these criminals to take advantage of our amnesty program, which remains open until the end of February.”
He called upon religious leaders, traditional chiefs, and community members to take responsibility for their neighborhoods and actively collaborate with law enforcement in the fight against crime.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and security agencies for their assistance, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to eliminating criminal elements from Anambra.
“Anambra is on a path to progress, and we will not allow criminals to take control,” Soludo concluded.
