Stakeholders, security operatives, traditional rulers, and community leaders have urged the government to address the escalating insecurity in the South East region.
At a town hall meeting organised by News Central held recently in Awka, Anambra State, they stressed that continuous engagement and enlightenment of the masses remain vital for building trust and ensuring the effectiveness of security measures.
The organisers said the forum focused on collaborative solutions to the challenges of kidnapping and violent crime that have plagued the region in recent years and called for law enforcement-accountability.
Addressing complaints by members of the public, the state Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, underscored the importance of community partnership in restoring peace.
The commissioner also expressed displeasure with the actions of IPOB and other groups, promising to nip insecurity in the bud. The Police Command cited the success of recent collaborations with local industrialists and traditional rulers, which have provided critical resources and intelligence for ongoing security operations.
Other speakers at the event urged the government to implement effective monitoring systems, including tracking devices and situation rooms, to prevent unprofessional conduct and extortion by security operatives.
They also emphasised the need for the welfare and security of Anambra residents, calling for mechanisms to be put in place to ensure police accountability, transparency and respect for human rights.
The stakeholders agreed on the need for continuous dialogue, professional standards, and inclusive participation to address the root causes of insecurity in Anambra State and the wider Southeast region.
Those who spoke at the event included His Royal Majesty Igwe Benneth Izuchukwu Emeka, the Okebo II of Umueri Community, Anambra East LGA; national president, Igbo Women Assembly, Nneka Chimezie; a rights advocate, Barr Titus Akpudo, and Prof Nwaogwugwu, former dean, Faculty of Social Science and secretary, Board of Directors, Institute of Social Policy, UNIZIK.
