Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has stated that releasing Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, will not resolve the increasing insecurity in the Southeast region.
During a press briefing at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, Soludo argued that the original Biafra agitation had been hijacked by criminal elements who are using Kanu’s name to carry out organized crimes, including kidnapping and armed robbery.
Soludo emphasized that what is currently being labeled as a Biafran struggle is actually a network of criminal gangs.
The governor noted that insecurity in the region has escalated beyond Kanu’s control, as many criminals no longer follow his commands. Although IPOB has distanced itself from violent groups, Soludo maintained that the ongoing criminal activities have nothing to do with any legitimate liberation movement.
Soludo also disclosed that over 99% of criminals arrested in Anambra in the past two years were Igbo, with a significant portion being non-indigenes of the state. He criticized some local communities for aiding the criminals by providing food and shelter to those hiding in forests, highlighting the need for greater community cooperation in tackling crime.
In response to the growing security concerns, the governor announced the launch of a new initiative called ‘Operation Udo Ga Chi’ (Operation Peace Shall Reign). This initiative will involve advanced surveillance technology, the deployment of 163 vehicles for stop-and-search operations, and collaboration between forest guards and local vigilantes.
Soludo appealed to communities, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to work together in the fight against crime, and encouraged residents to take advantage of the amnesty program offered by his administration, which remains open until the end of February.
He expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and security agencies for their ongoing support, reaffirming his commitment to making Anambra a secure and progressive state.
His words: “The so-called agitators have transformed into organized criminal gangs,”
“These criminals hide in forests, kidnap innocent citizens for ransom, and claim to act in the name of Biafra. Let’s be clear—this is not about liberation but money and bloodshed.
“Even if Nnamdi Kanu is released today, I’m not certain these criminals would listen to him. They’ve become enemies of the people they claim to protect,” he added.
