Ahead of the May 30 Biafra Day celebration, the Anambra State Police Command has stepped up security operations across the state, especially in key cities like Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ihiala, and Oraifite.
The heightened security comes in response to a sit-at-home directive by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), which declared May 30 a day to honour those who died in the Nigerian Civil War. The separatist group has called on people in the South-East to stay indoors to mark the day, raising fears of possible unrest.
In a statement on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the police, in partnership with other security agencies, are fully prepared to ensure peace and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Ikenga explained that the new security measures were adopted after a closed-door meeting of the Police-led Joint Security Force. The meeting included top officials from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigerian Army and Navy.
According to him, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has emphasized the readiness of security forces, boosted by support from residents who have openly rejected actions that could destabilize the state.
“The increased presence of security operatives across Anambra shows the commitment of the police and other agencies to maintain peace. These patrols are meant to prevent criminal acts, reassure the public, and create a safe environment,” the statement said.
The police also encouraged residents to work closely with security operatives and report any suspicious movement. Emergency contact numbers—07039194332 and 08039334002—have been made available for quick response.
Police further advised citizens needing assistance to contact their local Area Commanders or Divisional Police Officers (DPOs).
Security has remained a major concern in the South-East, especially during sensitive dates like Biafra Day, which has in the past seen disruptions linked to sit-at-home orders. Authorities have repeatedly warned that such directives are illegal and threaten public safety.
With the new measures, Anambra security agencies are aiming to ensure normalcy across the state on Friday.
