By Vincent Ujumadu

Leaders of thought in Awka, the Anambra State capital, under the aegis of Ozo Awka, have attributed rising security concerns and youth restiveness in the area to the prolonged absence of a town union executive.

In a statement signed by its President, Dr. M. N. Nwofor, and General Secretary, Chief Ndubuisi Nwakalo, the group lamented the failure to conclude the election for the President General of Awka, leaving the town without a centralized leadership structure.

“We are concerned that Awka has remained without a duly elected town union executive for many years. This unfortunate situation has not only hindered effective governance and control but has also worsened security challenges and youth restiveness within the metropolis,” the statement read.

The group also highlighted how the absence of an elected President General could impact the implementation of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, noting that the position plays a critical role in local security administration.

“Ozo Awka, therefore, calls on His Excellency, the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, to intervene by ensuring the conduct of a free and fair town union election in Awka as soon as possible. Filling this leadership vacuum is crucial to preventing further deterioration of communal harmony and constituted authority,” the statement added.

Despite their concerns, the leaders commended Governor Soludo for his administration’s efforts in restoring law and order in Awka Capital Territory. They acknowledged the significant decline in incidents of kidnapping, cult-related violence, and youth casualties due to criminal activities.

The group also praised Soludo’s infrastructural development efforts, noting that Awka had never witnessed such targeted government intervention. They specifically lauded projects such as:

Erosion control and internal road construction

Upgrade of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital

The permanent Government House

A new flyover linking Ifite village with Amaudo

The Awka Amusement Park and shopping mall

They urged the governor to continue these development initiatives while also addressing the leadership vacuum in the town union to foster long-term peace and stability in Awka.