By Izunna Okafor, Awka
As part of his Command’s robust effort to enhance security and end the lingering sit-at-home compliance plaguing Anambra State, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has launched an extensive advocacy and security assessment tour across the 21 local government areas of the State.
According to a statement issued to newsmen on on Monday by the Spokesperson of the Command, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, this initiative, which kicked off on November 4, 2024, also aims to engage communities, promote cooperation, and ensure the safety of all residents.
Starting at Awka South Local Government Area, CP Itam convened a high-level meeting with key stakeholders, including local government executives, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives, members of the Anambra State Vigilante group, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), during which he emphasized the importance of community-driven policing and urged residents to actively contribute to public safety efforts.
He further highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach to security, urging community members to take responsibility for their safety and be vigilant.
While reminding the people that security is everyone’s business, the Police Commissioner also emphasized the need for residents to serve as their neighbours’ keepers. He called on citizens to always and promptly report any suspicious activities or unusual movements to the police through the Command’s emergency number, 07039194332, while also assuring them of a swift response He stressed that adding that timely information sharing is crucial for preemptive security measures.
Giving an update on the recent violent attacks at Nibo and Ifite (all in Awka South Local Government Area), where scores of persons were killed, CP Itam confirmed that the police have made significant progress, with some suspects already under scrutiny.
“We are on their trail,” he assured, while reiterating the Command’s commitment to apprehending and bringing the perpetrators to justice. He further reassured the Command’s dedication to maintaining a lasting peace and ensuring airtight security throughout the state, which he said the communities and the residents have significant roles to play in its realization, most especially at the grassroots level.
Responding on behalf of the people of Awka South, the Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Prince Chinedu Okafor, who appreciated the CP for the visit, pledged the unwavering support of local leaders and community members in Awka South in combating insecurity. He affirmed that the local government and various stakeholders are ready to collaborate and work hand-in-hand with the police and other security agencies to enhance safety and promote peace in the area, as well safeguard the communities and eradicate the threats posed by sit-at-home enforcements.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga, the advocacy initiative didn’t end with meetings, as CP Itam also led anti-sit-at-home patrols and inspection across various locations, including Ogidi, Obosi, Okpoko, Harbour, and Awada Divisional Headquarters, among others, both to boost police visibility, assess security infrastructure, and reinforce the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on lawlessness.
