By Anayo Okoli

Enugu – The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has commended the Anambra State Government for launching the Agunechemba Security Outfit to tackle insecurity, particularly the kidnappings that have severely affected the state’s economy.

However, the human rights group cautioned that the security outfit must operate strictly within the law and avoid excesses that could lead to human rights violations.

In a statement signed by Intersociety Chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi, the group urged Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo to ensure that Agunechemba operatives remain under full government supervision and control.

“Intersociety strongly cautions the Prof. Charles Chukwuma-led Government not to make the costly mistake of the late former Gov. Chinweoke Mbadinuju. The governor must have total control, monitoring, and supervision of the activities of the Agunechemba operatives,” the statement read.

It stressed that the outfit must strictly target violent criminals, their sponsors, and their criminal assets, ensuring that all actions comply with legal and due process frameworks.

Intersociety further warned against any form of extrajudicial killings, citing past abuses by the now-defunct Bakassi Boys, a vigilante group that was notorious for jungle justice and human rights violations.

“The government must be reminded that there are strict circumstances under which armed state and sub-state actors can use lethal force—only when under direct attack and in strict compliance with the principles of proportionality,” the group emphasized.

It also cautioned that shooting unarmed citizens, regardless of the offense, constitutes unlawful execution and could amount to a crime against humanity.

“It is dangerously unlawful to use indiscriminate killings, abductions, and disappearances as a measurement of law enforcement success or government achievement,” the statement added.

The group advised Governor Soludo to thoroughly vet all security operatives and ensure they uphold justice.

“Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo must be mindful of those recruited as the heads and operatives of the security outfit, and he must monitor and checkmate them,” Intersociety stated.

The statement concluded by urging the Agunechemba outfit to avoid false accusations, hearsay conclusions, and trial by ordeal, stressing that their legitimacy and public support depend on fairness, professionalism, and strict adherence to human rights standards.