By Oluebube Chukwu
Governor Alex C. Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Abia State, urging citizens and security agencies to work together to strengthen community policing efforts. Speaking at the Citizens’ Town Hall Engagement on Strengthening Community Policing in Nigeria, at the International Conference Centre in Umuahia, Governor Otti emphasized that security remains the foundation upon which all other state initiatives are built.
Upon assuming office in May 2023, Governor Otti made it clear that the security of lives and property would be the top priority of his administration. He reiterated this commitment during the town hall meeting, stating, “We were prepared to give everything to keep our people safe from criminals and those whose trade threaten the security and peace of our land.” This resolve was quickly followed by the establishment of “Operation Crush,” a joint task force designed to make Abia a safe haven for law abiding citizens while rooting out criminal elements.
The governor highlighted the critical role of community engagement in maintaining security. He noted that the state government has not only set up special intervention teams but has also worked closely with security and paramilitary agencies to identify areas where support is needed. “Our focus on security revolved around the understanding that everything else we planned to do in terms of infrastructure development and welfare of the citizenry will amount to nothing if our people are constantly at the mercy of criminals,” Otti stated.
Governor Otti also acknowledged the importance of today’s town hall meeting as a platform for fostering collaboration among senior government officials, law enforcement personnel, community leaders, and civil society stakeholders. He stressed that such gatherings are essential for developing a comprehensive approach to combating crime, noting that security should not be left solely to the government but should involve the active participation of all citizens.
“We need to continually evaluate our strategy from multiple lenses,” the governor said, adding that technology would play a crucial role in crime prevention and detection. He urged attendees to embrace their responsibilities as citizens in supporting law enforcement efforts and ensuring that criminals have no safe haven in Abia State.
Reflecting on the security challenges faced by Abia State, particularly in the Umunneochi and Isuikwuato LGAs, Governor Otti recalled the swift actions taken by his administration to liberate communities from the grip of criminal gangs. He reassured the people of Abia that his government remains vigilant and committed to making the state the most peaceful in the region.
As the event concluded, Governor Otti emphasized the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among all stakeholders to maintain and improve the security landscape in Abia State. “The battle against insecurity is one that we must win,” he declared, affirming that his administration will not waver in its pursuit of a crime free state.
