Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed doubts that the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, would bring an end to the pervasive insecurity in the South East region ¹. Soludo's statement comes as the region continues to grapple with the challenges of armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and idolatry, all of which have been linked to the Biafran struggle.
Soludo argues that the criminals have hijacked the Biafran movement, using it as a cover for their nefarious activities. He notes that these individuals have turned to lucrative criminality, engaging in activities that have nothing to do with the genuine liberation struggle ¹. The governor emphasized that the crimes committed by these individuals are driven by greed and lawlessness, rather than any genuine desire for independence.
The governor also pointed out that over 99% of criminals arrested in Anambra State over the past two years have been Igbo, with more than 70% being non-indigenes of the state ¹. This statistic suggests that the issue of insecurity is not limited to any particular group or community, but rather a broader societal problem.
Soludo's stance on the matter has sparked a heated debate, with some arguing that the release of Kanu would only exacerbate the situation. Others have questioned the governor's motives, suggesting that he is more concerned with maintaining power than addressing the root causes of insecurity ².
*The Root Causes of Insecurity in the South East*
Soludo's analysis highlights several key factors contributing to the insecurity in the region:
- *Criminals hijacking the Biafran movement*: The governor argues that individuals have exploited the Biafran struggle for personal gain, using it as a cover for their criminal activities.
- *Greed and lawlessness*: Soludo emphasizes that the crimes committed by these individuals are driven by greed and lawlessness, rather than any genuine desire for independence.
- *Community complicity*: The governor notes that some communities have been complicit in shielding these criminals, contributing to the perpetuation of insecurity.
*The Way Forward*
To address the issue of insecurity in the South East, Soludo has proposed several measures:
- *Operation Udo Ga Chi*: The governor has announced plans to launch a state-wide security initiative, deploying 163 branded vehicles for stop-and-search activities and integrating advanced surveillance technology to track criminals and secure forests.
- *Amnesty window*: Soludo has called on criminals to take advantage of the amnesty window, which remains open until the end of February.
- *Community ownership*: The governor has emphasized the need for collective action, urging residents to take ownership of their communities and cooperate with security agencies.
*Conclusion*
Soludo's statement highlights the complexity of the insecurity issue in the South East. While the release of Kanu may not be a panacea, it is clear that addressing the root causes of insecurity requires a multifaceted approach. By acknowledging the role of criminals in hijacking the Biafran movement and promoting community ownership, Soludo's proposals offer a starting point for a more comprehensive solution. Ultimately, it will require the collective effort of all stakeholders to bring an end to the insecurity plaguing the region.
