Group backs Anambra’s security outfit for crime reduction

The Peace and Positive Living Awareness Centre (UN-PEPOLAC) has endorsed the Anambra State homeland security outfit, known as Agunechemba (Lion that protects a community), for its role in curbing crime and criminality just one month after its establishment.

UN-PEPOLAC’s International Coordinator, Dr Ozioma Ozoemena, highlighted the outfit’s achievements during the inauguration of the state executive members, known as Peace Officers.

He credited the initiative, launched by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, with uncovering dens of kidnappers, ritual killers, and other criminal elements threatening the state’s peace and values.

“In terms of security, the state’s challenges became evident after the launch of the Udo ga achi security initiative through the Agunechemba warriors, who worked in collaboration with other security agencies, including the police,” Ozoemena said.

He commended Soludo not only for the security milestone but also for accomplishments in road construction, education, healthcare, youth development, and infrastructure.

Ozoemena also lauded the governor for signing into law the Anambra State Peace Building and Conflict Management Agency. He noted that this legal framework, initially proposed during the 8th House of Assembly, has motivated UN-PEPOLAC to intensify its efforts in peacebuilding, conflict management, and violence prevention.

Ozoemena further disclosed that workshops and orientation programmes have been organised to train Peace Officers for effective performance as peace advocates. He added that these initiatives would be extended to grassroots levels to nurture local peace champions.

“Peace remains the foundation of societal development,” Ozoemena emphasised. He assured that UN-PEPOLAC, as a government-supporting organisation, is dedicated to transforming Anambra communities into liveable and prosperous places, making the state a leader in peacebuilding efforts.