By Vincent Ujumadu, Awka

Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has called on the Presidents-General (PGs) of town unions in the state to support the Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led administration’s new security initiative, Operation Udo Ga-Achị, aimed at restoring full security and eliminating criminal activities across the state.

Mefor made the appeal during his visit to the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) meeting at Government House, Awka. He assured the PGs that the state government was committed to addressing security challenges, particularly in Ihiala Local Government Area and other regions facing threats from criminals.

He said, “Anambra is a great state, but criminals are trying to destabilize it. That’s why we have enacted the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, which established a new security outfit called Agunechemba, replacing the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG), and launched Operation Udo Ga-Achị.”

Addressing concerns about the timing of the operation, Mefor explained, “The launch on January 18 was the culmination of extensive planning. The new security architecture involved acquiring technology, building Command and Control Centers, installing a sophisticated tracking system, and establishing a specialized strike force. While it took time, the operation is now in place and yielding positive results.”

Mefor stressed the vital role of PGs in ensuring the success of the security initiative. “This initiative requires collaboration from all communities. According to the new law, PGs must be actively involved in overseeing security operations in their areas. This is not about politics—security transcends party lines. We need peace and security to enable effective governance,” he said.

The commissioner also addressed the recovery of local governments, including Ihiala, which had been overtaken by criminals before Soludo took office. “We will not let our state revert to such a state. We are committed to reclaiming Ihiala and parts of Orumba, no matter the challenges. If you see something, say something,” he urged, highlighting the state’s whistleblowing policy that ensures confidentiality.

Mefor further explained that the law also targets the enablers of crime, including fake native doctors and money ritualists, practices foreign to Igbo culture. “Gov. Soludo’s aim is to protect genuine traditional medicine and eliminate harmful practices that deceive and exploit people,” he said.

In his address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Prince Ken Emeakayi, urged the PGs to take responsibility for security in their communities. “You must provide accurate security reports, as you will be held accountable for any breaches in your area under the new law,” he concluded.