The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the Anambra State government for its failure to address the worsening security situation in the state. According to HURIWA, the government, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has neglected its fundamental responsibility to protect the lives and property of Anambra residents.
In a statement issued on December 17, 2024, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, expressed grave concerns over the alarming levels of insecurity, particularly following reports from non-indigenes in the state. These residents, led by their chairman Alhaji Abubakar Sani and secretary Chief Adebayo Adewusi, declared that 15 out of the 21 local government areas in Anambra have become unsafe.
“We are witnessing a breakdown in law and order,” Onwubiko said. “The government has failed in its primary duty to protect the lives of the people as mandated by the Nigerian Constitution.”
The group’s concerns come after several kidnappings and violent crimes in Anambra, including the recent abduction of retired Anglican Archbishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Godwin Okpala. He has been held captive for nearly a week, highlighting the state’s deteriorating security situation.
‘Onitsha Now a No-Go Area’
A particularly shocking aspect of the security crisis is the escalating violence in Onitsha, a city that was once regarded as relatively safe. Residents have lamented the growing presence of kidnappers and criminals, turning the once-bustling commercial hub into a hotbed of criminal activity.
The group of non-indigenes highlighted specific “no-go” zones across various local government areas, including Orumba, Aguata, Ogbaru, Ihiala, Nnewi South, Idemili North and South, and Ekwusigo. These areas, according to the group, have been overrun by criminals, leaving citizens to live in fear.
The residents have called for a joint security operation involving the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, DSS, and the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG). The group stressed that the current state of insecurity is forcing residents to live under constant threat.
Governor Soludo’s Inaction Under Fire
HURIWA did not hold back in its criticism of Governor Soludo’s handling of the situation. Onwubiko emphasized that while the governor touts achievements in road construction and infrastructural development, the state’s failure to provide security for its citizens is a glaring failure.
“While the government celebrates its infrastructural strides, the most basic responsibility of governance – protecting lives – has been completely neglected,” Onwubiko remarked.
HURIWA pointed out that despite Soludo’s claims of development, the persistent insecurity in Anambra is undermining the state’s growth. In areas like Onitsha and Nnewi, businesses are being affected, and people are afraid to go about their daily activities.
“The government must not only focus on building roads but must also ensure that the citizens can walk on those roads without fear of being kidnapped or attacked,” Onwubiko added.
HURIWA’s Urgent Recommendations
To address the situation, HURIWA has outlined several urgent steps the state government should take. These include the formation of a robust joint security task force that includes the Nigerian Army, Police, Civil Defence, DSS, and the Anambra Vigilante Group. The task force, according to HURIWA, should be adequately equipped, motivated, and given clear operational mandates to dismantle criminal gangs across the state.
In addition, the association called for more support for local vigilante groups, which are often the first responders in rural communities. “Vigilante groups play a crucial role in providing intelligence and responding quickly to security threats,” Onwubiko said.
HURIWA also recommended the use of modern surveillance technology, including drones and CCTV cameras, to monitor high-risk areas. It stressed the need for public-private partnerships to fund security initiatives, arguing that the private sector has a vested interest in ensuring a safe environment for commerce and investment.
Social Interventions to Tackle Root Causes
Beyond immediate security measures, HURIWA emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity in Anambra. It recommended the implementation of social intervention programs aimed at job creation and youth empowerment. Many of the criminals, HURIWA pointed out, come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
“The government must focus on creating opportunities for the youth to keep them away from criminal activities,” Onwubiko said. “Without such initiatives, the insecurity will only worsen.”
The association also urged the state government to collaborate with the judiciary to ensure swift prosecution of arrested criminals. The perception of impunity, HURIWA warned, continues to fuel criminal activities in the state.
Time for Action
HURIWA’s call for urgent action comes as the festive season approaches, with the association stressing that the governor must ensure that Anambra citizens can celebrate Christmas without fear. “The governor must act decisively to reclaim Anambra from the criminals who have taken control of it,” Onwubiko said.
While HURIWA acknowledged the infrastructural achievements of the Soludo administration, it made it clear that these accomplishments are meaningless without the security to protect the citizens. “A government that fails to secure the lives of its people has failed in all aspects,” Onwubiko concluded.
In the face of mounting insecurity, HURIWA’s call for urgent reform stands as a stark reminder that the government’s primary responsibility remains the protection of its people.
Possible Headlines:
- “HURIWA Blasts Anambra Government for Failing to Tackle Growing Insecurity”
- “Anambra’s Insecurity Crisis: HURIWA Urges Immediate Action from Soludo”
- “Security Breakdown in Anambra: HURIWA Demands Urgent Government Reforms”
