Anambra decides : flash points, troubled communities remain calm over security presence – Police

PHIL OKOSE, Onitsha

Suspected flash points and troubled communities that have been given Anambra state sleepless nights were said to have remained calm and the criminals reportedly fled prior to this weekend gubernatorial election sequel to the heavy presence of police and other security operatives.

According to a press release by the state Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Tochukwu Ikenga, (SP), the Governorship Election is ongoing peacefully in those former troubled communities that include, Ihiala, Ogbaru, and Ayamelum Local Government areas, including other parts of the State.

“A strong and well coordinated security presence has continued to dominate all strategic locations to ensure a secure and orderly voting atmosphere.

“Police operatives and personnel of sister security agencies are on ground across polling centers, collation zones, waterways, and border communities to deter any form of disruption and to provide confidence for voters to exercise their civic responsibility without fear or intimidation.

“The Command maintains strict neutrality and assures all political actors and citizens that it remains committed to protecting the integrity of the electoral process, safeguarding lives and property, and enforcing the law throughout the election period.

“The public is encouraged to continue to conduct themselves peacefully and comply with lawful instructions from security officers on duty.

Commending Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu and other security operatives for restoring security in the state, the state chairman of Civil Liberties Organization, CLO, com. Vincent Ezekwueme recalled that formerly in elections like this, scores would have been killed, reported missing and properties set ablaze.

“Before Soludo came on board there was nothing like peaceful election, scores were killed, the likes of Mr. Ikenna Maduabuchi has not been seen, also some traditional rulers, captains of industries, politicians, among others, were either killed, declared missing, and uncountable numbers of properties, especially vehicles and houses set ablaze.

“So we thank Soludo, CP Orutugu, Udogachi security outfit and others for restoring security. Fake native doctors are now on the run, they encourage our youths to commit most of the violent crimes,” he revealed.