The governors, House committee, and security agencies, including the Chief of Army Staff, met in Enugu and Abuja, respectively, to address the growing insecurity in the southeast.
The Reps committee, in their meeting with the Army Chief, expressed concern over violent crimes committed by gunmen associated with IPOB and ESN, which pose a threat to the region’s existence.
Obi Agocha, the committee chair, addressed security agencies in Abuja to combat crimes in Abia, including banditry, assassination, kidnapping, and other threats. He aimed to address the region’s insecurity and protect its foundation.
Agocha noted that the committee recognised the need for a collective approach to address the menace, emphasising the importance of involving security agencies and stakeholders. We must collaborate and work in synergy to address this crisis and enhance security in the region.
He claimed that Umunneochi, a community in Abia bordering other states in the South-East, is the main battleground where non-state actors, such as IPOB and the Eastern Security Network, frequently commit crimes and escape to nearby states.
The chair expressed displeasure over security agencies’ absence at the hearing, stating the lawmakers would not tolerate such behaviour. In attendance were the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The Army Chief, Major General Lagbaja, promised to end kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities in the South East region, specifically in Isiukwuato and Umunnochi in Abia State.
He assured me that all security agencies are working tirelessly to address the insecurity. Lagbaja, represented by Brigadier General Gabriel Olufemi Esho, pledged to address kidnapping in Umunochi Community, Abia State.
He stated that the region faced security threats from the proscribed IPOB, with recent cases in July. He mentioned that the local governments’ security is working with the army, but the Nigerian army carries most of the responsibility due to challenges.
The House of Representatives requested the Army provide a memorandum about the constant attacks by criminals in the two local government areas. Kidnapping has increased in the southeast region during the second quarter of this year. The Nigerian army, along with other security agencies, has reduced kidnapping threats. Efforts will be made to apprehend the perpetrators and restore peace.
