By Ikechukwu Ozurumba
The Executive Chairman of Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, Hon. Prince Marcel Amadioha, has reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for insecurity, saying his government in collaboration with the Imo State Government, security agencies, traditional rulers and critical stakeholders has launched a renewed onslaught against kidnappers and other criminal elements terrorizing the area.
Speaking to newsmen, in a press briefing last Friday in Owerri, Hon. Prince Amadioha disclosed that the collaborative security operation has already yielded positive results with the arrest of several suspected kidnappers and other criminal elements in different parts of the LGA.
According to him, the operation which involved the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, NSCDC and the newly approved autonomous community-based vigilante groups, was carried out following credible intelligence from community leaders and stakeholders.
“The peace and security of our people remains the top priority of my administration. Ohaji/Egbema is an oil-producing LGA and we cannot allow criminals and kidnappers to make our communities unsafe for our people and for investors,” Amadioha said.
“We are working in total synergy with His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma’s administration, which has shown strong commitment to security, and with all security agencies, our Royal Fathers, President Generals, youth leaders and stakeholders, noting that the collaboration is paying off as some suspected kidnappers and criminals have been apprehended and are currently in custody undergoing investigation,” he added.
The Council Chairman commended the traditional rulers and community leaders for their support and timely information sharing, noting that security is a collective responsibility. He also lauded the gallantry of security operatives for their professionalism during the operations.
Prince Amadioha, however, issued a stern warning to individuals, no matter how highly placed, who sponsor or provide cover for criminals in Ohaji/Egbema and some other negative political assignments to desist forthwith or face the full wrath of the law.
Furthermore he warned, “those sponsoring, aiding or harbouring these criminals, let this be your last warning. We know you, your families, your brothers and sisters, Security agencies are closing in on you, adding that Ohaji/Egbema will no longer be a safe haven for evil doers, anybody found culpable, irrespective of political or financial status, will be arrested and made to face the law.”
The Council Chairman, also called on investors who have interest to do business in Ohaji/Egbema LGA to come, that the State government who cares about the lives and property of his people have sanitise the area with the arrest of the kingpin kidnapper and their collaborators, who he said are facing investigation at the security agency custody.
He assured residents of the LGA to go about their lawful businesses without fear and urged them to continue to volunteer useful information to security agencies.
