Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has asserted that releasing Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will not address the escalating insecurity in the southeast.
Speaking at a press briefing at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, Soludo noted that the original Biafra agitation has been overtaken by criminal elements exploiting Kanu’s name to commit heinous crimes, including kidnapping and armed robbery.
“The so-called agitators have transformed into organized criminal gangs,” the governor stated. “These criminals hide in forests, kidnap innocent citizens for ransom, and claim to act in the name of Biafra. Let’s be clear—this is not about liberation but money and bloodshed.”
Soludo emphasized that many of these criminals now operate independently of Kanu’s influence, rendering his release insufficient to curb the region’s insecurity.
“Even if Nnamdi Kanu is released today, I’m not certain these criminals would listen to him. They’ve become enemies of the people they claim to protect,” he said.
While acknowledging IPOB’s repeated statements dissociating itself from violent groups, Soludo stressed that the current wave of crime has no ties to any legitimate liberation efforts.
The governor also revealed startling statistics, stating that over 99% of criminals arrested in Anambra over the past two years were Igbo, with a significant number hailing from outside the state. He criticized the role of some locals in aiding these criminals, pointing out that some communities provide food and shelter to those hiding in forests.
To tackle the rising insecurity, Soludo unveiled a new initiative, ‘Operation Udo Ga Chi’ (Operation Peace Shall Reign). The program includes advanced surveillance technology, 163 vehicles for stop-and-search operations, and forest guards working in collaboration with local vigilantes.
“Insecurity is a monster that must be confronted collectively. Anambra will no longer be a safe haven for criminals masquerading as freedom fighters,” Soludo declared.
He called on communities, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to unite in combating crime and urged residents to take advantage of the amnesty program offered by his administration, which remains open until the end of February.
Expressing gratitude to the Federal Government and security agencies for their support, Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring a secure and progressive Anambra. “Our state will rise above these challenges, and together, we will restore peace and stability,” he concluded.
