Okonkwo Samuel
AGỤNECHEMBA IS BORN AND UDO GA-ACHỊ: A New Era for Security in Anambra State
(A report on Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s speech during the unveiling of the Anambra Homeland Security Law and launch of Operation “Udo Ga-Achi” on Saturday, 18th January 2025)
In a landmark moment for Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, unveiled the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 and launched a special security initiative, Operation Udo Ga-Achi (“Operation Peace Shall Prevail”), signaling a decisive step towards combating insecurity and fostering lasting peace in the state.
A Time for Action
Governor Soludo opened his address with a reflection on his administration’s nearly three years in office. He highlighted security, law, and order as the cornerstone of his vision for a livable and prosperous Anambra. Emphasizing his administration’s zero-tolerance for criminality, he declared, “We are determined to fight criminality and ensure that Anambra becomes the safest state in Nigeria.”
The Governor noted that criminal activities in Anambra, particularly kidnapping for ransom, armed robbery, drug-related offenses, and cultism, have evolved into sophisticated enterprises. He recalled personal and statewide security challenges, including his father’s abduction in 2009 and the rise of criminal groups exploiting separatist propaganda to justify their operations.
Confronting a Hydra-Headed Menace
Soludo described the dire state of Anambra’s security when his administration assumed office in 2022. Eight local government areas were under the control of criminal elements. Through a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, including security summits, dialogue, and military interventions, his government reclaimed these areas within a year.
However, criminal elements have continued to adapt, necessitating a more robust and comprehensive framework. The Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025 was designed to address this, integrating local and state-level security strategies through the Agụnechemba vigilante structure. This initiative empowers communities to actively participate in security efforts while complementing federal security agencies.
The Launch of “Operation Udo Ga-Achi”
The highlight of the event was the launch of Operation Udo Ga-Achi. This special task force, consisting of 2,000 personnel drawn from the police, army, navy, DSS, and vigilante groups, is tasked with eradicating criminal camps and combating key challenges like drug abuse, cultism, touting, and criminal idolatry.
Governor Soludo emphasized the integration of advanced technology, including AI-powered surveillance cameras, a state-of-the-art command-and-control system, and emergency toll-free lines (5111, 08002200008, and 112). Additionally, 200 new vehicles were unveiled to support operational mobility.
Incentives and Collaboration
To motivate communities and security personnel, the Governor announced several incentives, including:
• A N10 million monthly bonus for local governments that record zero violent crimes.
• Bounties of up to N5 million for whistleblowers who provide credible information leading to arrests.
• Monthly security support grants for communities to strengthen grassroots efforts.
He also extended an olive branch to criminals, offering them a window until February 28, 2025, to surrender and receive rehabilitation.
Tackling Root Causes
Acknowledging that brute force alone cannot solve the problem, Governor Soludo stressed the need to address systemic issues like idolatry, cultism, and a value system that glorifies illicit wealth. He called on religious leaders, educators, traditional rulers, and civil society to join the fight against these societal ills.
“We must redeem the soul of our society by reinventing our fundamental values of enterprise, hard work, compassion, and integrity,” he urged.
A Call to Collective Responsibility
Governor Soludo appealed to all Ndi Anambra to take ownership of the security of their homeland. He warned against shielding or aiding criminals and emphasized that sustainable security requires collective action. “These criminals are our brothers, sisters, husbands, relations, and friends. They live among us, and we know them. Silence means complicity.”
A Vision for a Safer Future
The Governor concluded with a firm resolve to intensify efforts against insecurity. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and resilient, assuring them of his administration’s unwavering commitment to a secure and prosperous Anambra.
As the people of Anambra embark on this new era, the Governor’s message is clear: with unity, determination, and adherence to the new security framework, peace will prevail, and the state will achieve its full potential.
God bless Anambra State and Nigeria!
