Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has announced plans to overhaul the state’s security framework in response to a series of violent attacks by gunmen that claimed the lives of security personnel in recent days.
Governor Otti made the announcement while addressing journalists after a Security Council meeting in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Recall that on November 12, gunmen attacked troops of the Joint Task Force of the South East Operation Udo Ka in the Ekeneobizi community of Umuahia South LGA, killing two soldiers during the assault.
This incident was followed by an attack on the convoy of the Member Representing Isiala Ngwa South and North Constituency, Chief Ginger Onwusibe, who was ambushed on Sunday by gunmen, resulting in the death of a police officer.
Additionally, on Wednesday, a police checkpoint in Ohafia LGA was ambushed by gunmen. One police officer was killed, while two others were injured.
Expressing concern over the unfortunate incidents, Governor Otti condoled with the families of the deceased and the leadership of the Nigerian Army and Police.
He assured the public that proactive measures would be implemented to address the security challenges, particularly as the Yuletide approaches.
*”I am happy that today we have resolved to rejig the security architecture of the state and ensure that incidents like this become a thing of the past.
“As I settle down, I will visit the families of the deceased, including the leadership of the Nigerian Police and the Nigerian Army in the state.
“We have also agreed to redouble our efforts in areas where there is a possibility of attacks, particularly now that the Yuletide is here.
“We want to reassure Abia people that we are more than capable of addressing security challenges,”* he said.
Governor Otti also called on residents to remain calm and not allow the recent incidents to instill fear. He emphasized the State Government’s commitment to implementing effective strategies that would prevent future attacks and restore public confidence in the state’s security apparatus.
*”We have the commitment of the security agencies, and everyone will redouble their efforts to ensure such attacks do not happen again.
“We have also decided to root out all criminals, wherever they are hiding.
“So, let this serve as notice: if you are a criminal in Abia State—whether you identify as IPOB, ESN, bandits, or kidnappers—you will be found and dealt with,”* he said.
The Governor further highlighted the importance of community cooperation with security agencies in rooting out criminal elements. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a secure and peaceful environment for all residents.
