- Since Nnamdi Kanu’s arrest in 2021, and the Eastern Security Network’s establishment, insecurity has surged in the southeast, especially in Anambra.
- The ESN faces accusations of involvement in abductions, killings, and communal clashes, alongside enforcing a contentious Monday sit-at-home directive.
The Anambra state governor, Charles Soludo, has attributed rising insecurity to a “conspiracy of silence” among residents, citing kidnappings and ritual killings.
Soludo emphasised that tackling insecurity demands cooperation between citizens and security agencies, speaking in Awka on Wednesday.
The governor inspected the guard of honor and laid wreaths to commemorate the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
NAN quoted Soludo, “We must speak out against the ‘conspiracy of silence’ fuelling criminal activities, including kidnappings.”
“These criminals live among us, as husbands, brothers, fathers, and relatives,” Soludo said.
“Combating insecurity is a collective responsibility; report suspicious activities to help security agencies keep us safe.”
Soludo’s administration pledged support for security agencies to secure the state.
Armed Forces Remembrance Day, marked annually on January 15, honors fallen heroes and living veterans.
Soludo paid tribute to fallen heroes, acknowledging their sacrifices, and urged support for serving personnel nationwide.
Soludo said, “Anambra appreciates security personnel’s sacrifices, enduring harsh conditions to secure the state.”
The governor prayed that fallen heroes’ sacrifices would unite and strengthen the nation.
Soludo released pigeons symbolizing peace and prosperity, followed by a moment of silence and 21-gun salutes to honor fallen heroes.