The Cross River State Command of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) has appealed to the State House of Assembly to support its operations with arms, logistics and improved welfare for personnel.

The command also called for the inclusion of its members on the state government’s payroll, saying such measures would strengthen grassroots security and improve its capacity to protect lives and property.

The appeal was made on Thursday when the leadership of the VGN paid a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, at the Assembly’s Conference Hall in Calabar.

Leading the delegation, the State Commandant of the VGN, Dr Ntufam Hayford Solomon Edet, said in his address that the organisation required stronger institutional support to effectively complement conventional security agencies.

Edet said members of the group were often among the first responders to security incidents in rural communities, particularly in areas where conventional security personnel had limited presence.

He expressed concern that Cross River remained the only state in the federation where VGN personnel operated without authorised firearms, despite what he described as growing security challenges in rural communities.

According to Dr Edet, “Shortage of appropriate operational equipment had continued to limit effectiveness of our personnel deployed to vulnerable areas”

Edet recalled that the state government formally incorporated the VGN into the Cross River State Homeland Safety and Security Agency following legislation enacted in August 2016.

He argued that the legal framework should be matched by stronger institutional collaboration, operational support and capacity-building programmes for members of the organisation.

“Stronger institutional backing will turn our potential into performance, especially as we brace for the challenges of the coming elections.” Dr Edet assured.

He said the visit was also aimed at formally introducing the command to the new leadership of the Assembly and reaffirming its commitment to supporting Governor Bassey Otu’s administration in maintaining peace and security.

“This visit is both an introduction to new leadership and a renewed pledge—our commitment to standing with Governor Otu’s administration in keeping the peace is unwavering.” he said.

The commandant further requested government assistance for training, seminars, retreats, operational logistics and improved welfare, stressing that better working conditions would raise personnel morale.

The Commandant further requested for Government adequate support saying, “Invest in our training, logistics, and welfare”, stressing that, “A well-supported officer is a more determined guardian of the peace.”

Edet expressed confidence that stronger institutional backing would enhance the group’s effectiveness in protecting communities and supporting security agencies, particularly as the state prepares for future general elections

Responding, the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt Hon Ayambem acknowledged the changing nature of security threats and the need for security institutions to adapt to emerging challenges.

“When occurrences give birth to inventions, governments are compelled to strengthen security organisations to meet emerging threats.”

The Speaker said the Assembly recognised the VGN’s contribution to community policing and pledged to facilitate discussions with Governor Bassey Otu on possible government support, including operational assistance and personnel welfare.

“We see the VGN as a vital partner in community policing, and we will carry your needs for operational and welfare support straight to the Governor.” the Speaker assured.