Anambra State House of Assembly Explains Why It Passed a Bill Creating Anambra State Agunechemba Security Outfit

The Anambra State House of Assembly stated that it passed a bill establishing the Anambra State Agunechemba security outfit in order to strengthen internal security and combat rising crime across the state. According to lawmakers, the decision was driven by the need for a proactive, community-based security structure to address growing insecurity, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism, which have plagued various parts of the state. The bill is expected to enhance safety across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, providing a comprehensive framework for crime prevention and intelligence gathering.

During the plenary session where the bill passed its first, second, and third readings, Speaker Somtochukwu Udeze commended members of the Assembly for their dedication in deliberating on the legislation. He praised their resolve in addressing security challenges head-on and acknowledged Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s commitment to ensuring Anambra remains a peaceful and crime-free state. Udeze highlighted that the establishment of the security outfit reflects a collaborative effort between the executive and legislative arms of government to prioritize the safety of lives and property.

The Agunechemba Security Outfit will function at three administrative levels: community, local government, and state, with the state-level command serving as the central authority. This multi-tiered structure aims to foster grassroots participation in security efforts while ensuring a coordinated approach to crime-fighting. The outfit will rely on intelligence gathering to anticipate and prevent criminal activities, enhancing proactive rather than reactive security measures.

Ikenna Ofodeme, the Majority Leader representing Ekwusigo Constituency, stressed the strategic importance of the outfit. He remarked that Anambra should not be a haven for crime and that Agunechemba’s role would be critical in providing actionable intelligence to thwart criminal plots. He emphasized its mandate to tackle various security threats, including kidnapping, drug trafficking, banditry, cultism, and other forms of violent crime. Ofodeme expressed confidence that the outfit would significantly contribute to reducing insecurity across the state.

Several other lawmakers voiced their support for the initiative, underscoring its expected impact on safeguarding residents. Jude Ngobili of Ihiala Constituency One, Ejike Okechukwu of Anaocha Constituency Two, and Anayo Okpaleke of Aguata Constituency One all highlighted how the new security framework would enhance community safety and strengthen the overall security infrastructure in Anambra. They noted that the outfit’s localized approach would ensure faster response times and more effective crime prevention strategies tailored to the specific needs of different communities.

The bill, set to take effect on January 17, 2025, represents a significant step forward in Anambra’s ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity comprehensively. By integrating local intelligence and creating a structured security chain, the Agunechemba Outfit aims to reduce the prevalence of violent crimes and reinforce public confidence in the state’s ability to protect its citizens. Governor Soludo and the State Assembly’s joint efforts demonstrate a commitment to innovation in security management, setting a precedent for community-driven solutions in addressing Nigeria’s broader security challenges.