Nnamdi Kanu’s Release May Not End South-East Insecurity – Soludo

Nnamdi Kanu’s Release May Not End South-East Insecurity – Soludo

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has expressed skepticism over the potential impact of releasing the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, on the persistent insecurity in the South-East region. Speaking at a press briefing held at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia on Tuesday, Soludo highlighted how criminal elements have hijacked the Biafran struggle, using it as a front to commit crimes and fuel unrest.

According to the governor, individuals hiding under the guise of agitation have turned to “lucrative criminality,” engaging in armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, and other illegal activities. Soludo clarified that these acts are not connected to the genuine liberation struggle but are instead driven by greed and lawlessness.

“The so-called agitators have transformed into organized criminal gangs,” he said. “They hide in forests, kidnapping innocent citizens for ransom and justifying their atrocities under the pretext of Biafra. Let us be clear—this has nothing to do with any liberation movement. These people have tasted blood, and now, money is their motivation.”

Soludo further emphasized that criminals exploiting Kanu’s name have severed ties with the original IPOB agitation. He noted that even if Nnamdi Kanu were released, it is doubtful that these criminals would heed his directives, as their current focus is personal gain rather than the liberation of the region.

“Kanu and IPOB have repeatedly dissociated themselves from these criminals,” Soludo explained. “Even if Nnamdi Kanu is released today, I’m not sure they would listen to him because what they now pursue is wealth, not liberation. They have become enemies of the people they claim to protect. Who are they fighting for when they kidnap and kill their own people?”

The governor also pointed out the role of some communities in sustaining insecurity, alleging that locals sometimes shield criminals and provide them with resources. He expressed concern over the perception of security agencies as adversaries and the criminals as liberators.

“Our people know these criminals. They are our brothers, cousins, and neighbors,” Soludo said. “It’s unfortunate that in some communities, people contribute food to sustain these criminals hiding in the forests. How do you fight insecurity when people see criminals as heroes and the police as the enemy?”

To address these challenges, Soludo announced the launch of a state-wide security initiative named ‘Operation Udo Ga Chi’ (Operation Peace Shall Reign), set to begin after January 25. The program will involve deploying 163 branded vehicles for stop-and-search activities and advanced surveillance technology to track criminals and secure forests.

“We are intensifying our security measures with both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. We have trained forest guards to work with vigilantes and LG authorities to reclaim our forests. I call on these criminals to embrace our amnesty window, which remains open until the end of February,” he added.

Soludo called for collective action from religious leaders, traditional rulers, and residents, urging them to take responsibility for their communities and work closely with security agencies.

“Insecurity is a monster that must be confronted collectively,” he emphasized. “If you see something, say something. Anambra will no longer be a haven for criminals masquerading as freedom fighters.”

The governor concluded by expressing gratitude to the Federal Government and security agencies for their support. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to eliminating criminal elements and ensuring peace and security in Anambra State.