Anambra State – Governor Charles Soludo has strongly defended the Agunechemba security outfit, stating that those condemning it are supporters and accomplices of criminals such as kidnappers and armed robbers.
Soludo made this statement on Saturday at the funeral mass of Justice Azuka, a Labour Party lawmaker who was tragically murdered.
High-Profile Attendees at the Funeral
The funeral saw the presence of notable figures, including:
- Peter Obi – Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential Candidate
- Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central)
- Senator Tony Nwoye (Anambra North)
- Emeka Idu (Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency)
- Pascal Agbodike (Ihiala Federal Constituency)
- Chief Chima Nzeibe (Former Rep for Ihiala Federal Constituency)
- Chief George Moghalu (Governorship Aspirant)
- Chief Valentine Ozigbo (Former PDP Governorship Candidate)
Soludo’s Vow: “We Will Deliver Justice”
During his address, Soludo assured the public that Justice Azuka’s family would be taken care of, though he did not provide specific details on the support they would receive.
He condemned the rising cases of kidnapping and murder, expressing shock over how young people are now killing victims even after collecting ransom.
“In the past, people were kidnapped, ransoms were paid, and they were released. But today’s youth kidnap and kill even after getting the ransom. This must stop.”
Soludo to Critics: “We Will Not Be Intimidated”
Soludo addressed the backlash against Agunechemba, stating:
“Some people are attacking me for setting up this security outfit. They are calling me names, but we don’t care. Anambra must be safe, and we won’t allow criminals to terrorize us anymore.”
He further warned traditional worshippers who protect criminals with charms and rituals, stating that while freedom of religion is respected, anyone shielding criminals will face the full force of the law.
Crackdown on Criminals Expands Beyond Anambra
Soludo also praised Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the Asagba of Asaba, for taking a strong stance against criminals fleeing from Anambra into Delta State.
He urged Anambra’s traditional rulers to take similar action.
“Immediately after learning that these criminals were moving into Asaba, the Asagba read them the riot act. He refused to let them operate in his domain. That’s the kind of leadership we need.”
With security tensions rising, the Agunechemba outfit continues its mission to eliminate crime, despite resistance from critics.
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