In a decisive move to curb the spread of false information, the Anambra State Government has issued a stern directive to town criers, mandating that all public announcements receive prior approval. This action comes in response to a series of unauthorized and misleading proclamations that have sown confusion among residents regarding the recently enacted Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025.
Dr. Law Mefor, the State Commissioner for Information, expressed the government’s concerns in a statement released on Tuesday. He highlighted instances where town criers disseminated erroneous information about the new law, leading to public unrest. “The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to the misrepresentations of the unambiguous provisions of the new Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025 and its express demands on the citizens and residents of the state by town criers and some others,” Dr. Mefor stated.
He emphasized that such misinformation has the potential to incite crises and confusion, undermining the law’s objectives. “This kind of false information and misrepresentation of the new law needs to end because it has the potential to cause crisis and confusion,” he added.
Examples of Misleading Announcements
Dr. Mefor cited specific instances where town criers propagated falsehoods about the law’s provisions. In one case, a town crier announced that individuals wearing dreadlocks or sagging trousers would face arrest. In another, it was claimed that women not wearing undergarments would be detained. “These misleading statements made by these town criers are neither part of the new law nor are they a directive from the state government,” Dr. Mefor clarified.
New Protocols for Town Criers
To prevent further dissemination of false information, the government has instituted a protocol requiring town criers to consult with their communities’ Presidents-General before making any public announcements. The Presidents-General will bear responsibility for ensuring the accuracy of the information broadcasted. “The government will now consider such misinformation to be intentional and fabricated to incite the public against the new law and Agunechemba,” Dr. Mefor warned.
He further advised, “When in doubt, the President-General should consult the government, especially the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor (SPAD) on Community Security.”
Background on the Homeland Security Law and Agunechemba
The Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025, was enacted to bolster the state’s security framework. A key component of this law is the establishment of “Agunechemba,” a security outfit designed to complement existing law enforcement agencies. The law also introduced “Operation Udo Ga-Achi,” translating to “Operation Peace Shall Prevail,” aimed at eradicating criminal activities and addressing issues related to illicit practices by certain native doctors and sorcerers.
Governor Charles Soludo, during the launch of “Operation Udo Ga-Achi,” emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security across all 21 Local Government Areas. He called upon communities to actively participate in security efforts by providing valuable information that could lead to the apprehension of criminal suspects. To incentivize cooperation, the governor announced a reward of five million Naira for information leading to the capture of wanted criminals.
Clarification on Traditional Worship Practices
In light of concerns from traditionalists, the government has clarified that the Homeland Security Law does not target traditional worship or native doctors. The law focuses on combating criminal activities perpetrated by individuals who misuse traditional practices for illicit purposes. Dr. Mefor reiterated, “The council restated that the new law was designed to combat crime and criminality committed by quacks and evil native doctors, particularly those who pervert and alter the core values of the Igbo society.”
Community Engagement and Responsibility
The government has urged community leaders to establish robust security governance structures and to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies. By ensuring that town criers disseminate accurate and approved information, communities can play a pivotal role in maintaining public order and supporting the state’s security initiatives.
Dr. Mefor concluded with a call to action: “The Presidents-General and Town Criers of the Anambra Communities should treat this public notice with the seriousness it merits to prevent the confusion that is currently being caused by false information propagated by some town criers.”
Implications for the Future
This directive signifies the Anambra State Government’s unwavering commitment to upholding the integrity of its laws and ensuring that residents receive accurate information. By regulating the activities of town criers and holding community leaders accountable, the government aims to foster a more informed and secure society. As these measures take effect, it is anticipated that the spread of misinformation will diminish, paving the way for the successful implementation of the Homeland Security Law and its associated initiatives.
