The Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence) of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) and Prime Minister of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), Amb. Dr. John Metchie, has noted that Anambra State remains relatively calm due to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s swift response to security breaches.
While acknowledging recent incidents of killings and kidnappings, Metchie credited the introduction of the Operation Udo Ga Achi special intervention force for restoring relative peace across various communities. He further highlighted a decline in kidnapping cases following the deployment of the Agunechemba strike force.
Speaking as the President-General of the Umueri community in Anambra East Local Government Area, Metchie described ongoing security operations as a “festival of demolition and destruction” of criminal hideouts, with multiple arrests and the recovery of illegal firearms and other dangerous weapons. He pointed to extensive media coverage of these breakthroughs, including videos of arrested criminals making confessional statements.
According to Metchie, the newly established Udo Ga Achi security squad, including the Agunechemba unit, has successfully uncovered and dismantled kidnappers’ dens in Oba, Nnewi, Enugwu-Agidi, Ihiala, Umunze, and other locations. He also noted that the Agunechemba squad recently neutralized over six gunmen in Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area.
As a security consultant, Metchie reiterated the importance of supporting Governor Soludo’s security initiatives rather than politicizing insecurity. He urged all stakeholders to work together to maintain peace and stability in Anambra, emphasizing that security challenges are not unique to the state but are prevalent nationwide.
He criticized those calling for Governor Soludo’s resignation over security issues, arguing that Anambra’s situation is often exaggerated on social media. He stressed that security concerns in some northern states are far worse but receive less attention.
Metchie reaffirmed that Governor Soludo is making significant progress despite the broader insecurity affecting the Southeast. He expressed confidence that with continued efforts and the ongoing crackdown on criminal elements, lasting peace will be achieved in Anambra. He concluded by stating that Operation Udo Ga Achi is here to stay and will fulfill its mission of restoring security across the state.
