Reps Decry Heightened Tension In South-East

Concerned members of the 10th House of Representatives on Thursday lamented that insecurity is threatening the foundation of the South East geopolitical zone of the Federation.

Chairman, Ad-hoc Committee interfacing with Security Agencies to reduce banditry, assassination, kidnapping and other criminalities in Abia State, Hon. Obi Agocha expressed the concern in Abuja during the flag-off of the investigative hearing.

He explained that the interface with security agencies was to address the insecurity that had cast a shadow in Abia State, adding that several instances of insecurity had threatened the region’s foundation.

While acknowledging that no single solution could provide a quick fix in addressing the menace, he, however, said that such challenges required a collective approach.

Hence, Hon. Agocha tasked the security agencies and all stakeholders on the need to step up the level of preparedness to tackle this menace and it must stand the test of time.

“The challenges we face are not mere statistics or headlines; they are real-life manifestations that affect the lives of our people, disrupt the functioning of our institutions, and impede the growth of our region. Instances of criminal activities, banditry, kidnapping, assassinations, communal clashes, and threats to life have shaken the very foundation of our societies. As leaders and stakeholders, it is incumbent upon us to come together, transcending our differences, to find sustainable solutions that will quell these threats and pave the way for a brighter future.

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“Our commitment to addressing this crisis is evident in our presence here today. We recognize that insecurity cannot be combated by one entity alone; it requires a collective, multi-faceted approach that encompasses the perspectives and expertise of law enforcement agencies, community leaders, policymakers, scholars, and citizens. This Committee hearing provides us with the opportunity to harness these diverse perspectives and channel them into a coherent, action-oriented strategy.

“As we navigate the complexities of security concerns, it is crucial to acknowledge that no single solution can provide a quick fix. It requires a holistic approach that encompasses law enforcement, community engagement, socio-economic development, and effective engagement from Governments. We must be prepared to tackle the issues at their core and work collaboratively to ensure lasting solutions that would stand the test of time.

“The cross-border dynamics of the primary focus area bring additional complexity to the challenges of the task ahead. The common borders, shared with 3 other States connect the primary focus area to Ebonyi State via Isiagu, Enugu State via Agwu and Imo state via Okigwe. The opportunity for inter-State collaboration presents itself and must be explored to foster regional collaboration.

“The challenges faced by one State ripple across its neighbors, and therefore, our strategies for resolution must be collaborative and inclusive. By synergizing our resources, expertise, and perspectives, we can create a stronger front against insecurity and strengthen the bonds that bind us together.

“The complex interplay or interest and non-state actors within this region is compounded by the presence of armed entities such as the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB) alongside Private Security Organization like the Royal Switch Services (RSS) and others within the gap.”

He said Umunneochi a community in Abia State, the epic centre of the battle has crossed boundaries with other states in the South East.

He added that most of the nonstate actors such as IPOB and Eastern Security Network often came to commit crimes in that area and disappeared to neighbouring states.

The chairman however expressed its displeasure for the absence of other security agencies that did not attend the interface, adding that the lawmakers would not condone auch attitude.

The security agencies present at the meeting were: the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps.

The representative of the Chief of Army Staff, Brigadier General Gabriel Esho, Deputy Director of Operation, said insecurity surged in July in the region.

(Tribune)

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