In a recent call to action, the Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has urged the governors of the South-East region to collaborate closely with town unions to tackle the growing insecurity in the area.

According to ASITU, the town unions, being firmly rooted within the grassroots, possess vital knowledge of their communities’ dynamics and are best positioned to address security concerns effectively.

Chief Emeka Diwe, the National President of ASITU, shared that his group had made several recommendations in different forums on how to combat insecurity in the region.

One of the critical suggestions was for the governors to establish a security system that integrates the community-based town unions.

He emphasized that any security initiative that fails to consider the local context and the unique challenges of the people would not be effective.

“The solution lies in a locally developed, modernized security system that incorporates town unions.

These unions are deeply embedded in the community and understand the nuances of their surroundings,” Chief Diwe stated.

ASITU also pointed to the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a significant factor contributing to insecurity, particularly in relation to the ongoing sit-at-home orders and Biafra-related agitation.

Chief Diwe called for his release, stressing that it would be a crucial step in reassessing the security situation in the South-East.

He further urged the federal government to consider releasing Nnamdi Kanu to facilitate a better understanding of the region’s security needs. “It won’t cost them anything to release him,” Diwe remarked.

In light of these issues, ASITU called on the South-East governors to set aside political interests and work sincerely with the town unions. Only through such a partnership, they believe, can the insecurity in the region be effectively reduced.

The plea for a grassroots-driven security initiative highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts between political leaders and local communities in addressing the challenges of insecurity in the South-East.