The President General of the Building Materials International Market in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area, Chief Jude Nwankwo, has called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intensify security measures across Anambra State to curb rising criminal activities. Speaking over the weekend, Chief Nwankwo emphasized the need to empower community leaders, including traditional rulers and market heads, to strengthen security efforts.
“It is crucial to equip Igwes, Presidents General, and market leaders who are familiar with their communities. They know the individuals causing problems and are best positioned to address local crime,” Chief Nwankwo stated. He urged Governor Soludo to invest more in security, citing the Governor’s prudent management of state resources, which has led to significant infrastructural development.
Chief Nwankwo also suggested that communities should be provided with tools like solar-powered CCTV systems, especially in marketplaces, to assist in crime prevention. Additionally, he proposed that local leaders be held accountable for security within their areas, calling for the elimination of cult-related violence and other criminal activities through a “non-kinetic approach.”
Commending Governor Soludo’s efforts to keep markets open on Mondays despite threats from unknown gunmen allegedly protesting the detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Chief Nwankwo remarked, “The Governor has the masses’ interests at heart. Traders want to work, but fear persists due to these criminals acting under the guise of protests.”
Chief Nwankwo advocated for a unified effort by Eastern Nigerian leaders to push for Kanu’s release, saying, “The solution is for all Eastern Governors and House of Representatives members to unite and appeal directly to Aso Rock.”
He expressed optimism that Kanu’s release would restore confidence for business activities, especially in markets heavily dependent on patrons from outside Anambra, such as Abuja, Kaduna, and neighboring countries.
