Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has secured and handed over 20 brand new Toyota Hilux Vans to various Security Agencies in the State.
Speaking at the handover Ceremony held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia, Governor Otti, while commending the efforts of the various Security Agencies, restated his administration’s commitment to combating all forms of criminality and ensuring peace in the state.
The Governor explained that the 20 Hilux trucks, purchased by the State Government for the various Security Agencies in the state is aimed at ensuring “seamless operations”, for law enforcement.
Governor Otti noted that the step is in a way towards appreciating security Agencies for their services to the state as well as arming them for more effective and efficient Service delivery to Ndi-Abia.
The Governor highlighted his administration’s achievements in improving Security since assumption of office, including the launch of Operation Crush, noting that the inter-agency operation has played a critical role in tackling crime and restoring safety in areas previously overrun by criminals, particularly in Isuikwuato and Umunneochi LGAs.
He revealed that towns and villages previously inaccessible due to the activities of kidnappers and armed robbers have been reclaimed, thereby allowing residents to return to their communities.
While acknowledging isolated incidents involving criminals infiltrating the state, the Governor assured the public that his administration remains steadfast in its resolve to address Security challenges.
He used the opportunity to disclose that the State has rejigged its Security architecture and warned that Abia State would no longer be a safe haven for anyone who chooses to operate outside the law.
Governor Otti who emphasized his administration’s unwavering support to Security Agencies in the state, however urged them to uphold professionalism and warned against misconduct, including extortion and the unlawful treatment of citizens.
Responding on behalf of other Security Agencies in the State, the Commander, 14 Brigade, Ohafia, Brigadier General O.O. Diya, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support to the State’s Security architecture.
Brigadier Gen. Diya assured that all Security Agencies would intensify efforts to maintain Abia as a model of safety and security for other States to emulate and employed citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to rid the state of all forms of crime and criminality.
Speaking in an interview with National Ambassador, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Abia State, Akinsola Aderemi, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba RTD, lauded the state government for its commitment to security enhancement, stressing that the synergy among all security agencies would ensure a safer environment for residents.
