Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has unveiled a bold initiative to tackle the rising tide of criminal activities in the state, offering a reward of up to N5 million for credible information leading to the arrest of kidnappers and armed robbers.
Speaking at the launch of the joint security operation, “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” (Peace Shall Prevail), in Awka on Saturday, Soludo declared his administration’s commitment to eradicating insecurity. The new program is backed by a robust team of security personnel and resources, including 200 patrol vehicles and a legal framework under the newly signed Anambra State Homeland Security Bill 2025.
“Criminality has become hydra-headed, and we must rise collectively to fight this menace,” the governor said. “We are determined to make Anambra the safest state in Nigeria.”
Rewards for Information and Crime-Free Communities
As part of the initiative, Soludo announced a toll-free line, 5111, through which residents can provide anonymous tips to security agencies. “If you give credible information that leads to the arrest of a kidnapper, armed robber, or the dismantling of a criminal hideout, you stand to earn up to N5 million. The reward depends on the significance of the criminal apprehended,” he explained.
In addition to targeting individual crimes, the state is incentivizing entire communities. Soludo revealed a monthly N10 million reward for communities that record zero crime, urging local leaders to design and implement their own security programs.
Security Forces Mobilized
The operation will deploy a combined force of 2,000 personnel drawn from the Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Army, Navy, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilantes known as ‘Agunechemba.’
“These officers are equipped to tackle a range of crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, drug-related offenses, and land-grabbing disputes,” Soludo said.
The state has also procured 200 patrol vehicles to ensure rapid response to emergencies across all communities. Soludo underscored the government’s resolve to fight crime, saying, “Be assured, we will take these criminals head-on. But we cannot do it alone. If you see something, say something. Silence means complicity.”
Institutional Support for Long-Term Security
To solidify the program, Governor Soludo signed the Anambra State Homeland Security Bill 2025 into law. This legislative measure provides a legal framework for the state’s security operations and aims to promote accountability and efficiency among the security forces.
The governor also announced Igwe Chidubem Iweka of Obosi as the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, emphasizing the vital role of traditional rulers in ensuring community safety.
Security Agencies Commend Initiative
Speaking on behalf of the security agencies, Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Obono-Itam lauded the state government’s efforts. “This initiative is a major step in ensuring Anambra becomes a beacon of safety in the region,” Obono-Itam said. “We, the security agencies, are fully committed to making this vision a reality.”
Governor Soludo outlined the multifaceted challenges facing the state, ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to cultism and drug-related crimes. He also highlighted the issue of “criminal idolatry,” which has plagued certain communities.
The administration aims to restore order and safety by addressing these issues holistically, combining immediate security measures with long-term strategies.
A Call to Action
Governor Soludo appealed to citizens to participate actively in the fight against crime. “For our long-term survival, we must rise together,” he said. “This is not just a government initiative; it is a collective responsibility. Together, we can reclaim our state from the grip of criminals.”
The ambitious security initiative has drawn praise from residents and stakeholders, with many expressing optimism about its potential to bring lasting peace to Anambra State.
Insecurity has been a significant challenge in Anambra and other parts of Nigeria, with incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism affecting daily life. The state’s new approach follows a growing trend among Nigerian governors to introduce whistleblower policies and community-led security initiatives to combat crime.
Governor Soludo’s administration has been vocal about prioritizing security as a cornerstone of economic development and social stability. The governor’s call for community involvement reflects a broader recognition that government efforts alone are insufficient to tackle deeply rooted criminal activities.
By incentivizing whistleblowing and community-led security programs, the initiative seeks to empower citizens to play an active role in safeguarding their environments.
