In a fervent call for unity and action, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has urged the Nigerian Army to work alongside his administration to ramp up efforts against criminality in the state.
The Governor made this appeal during the Major General O.T. Olatoye Special Sallah lunch celebrating Eid-Al-Adah at the Onitsha Military Cantonment.
Governor Soludo expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the tireless work being done by the Armed Forces and local vigilante groups in maintaining security across Anambra.
“We recognize and thank the Armed Forces and our vigilante groups who are playing a supportive role in our quest for safety,” he stated, as he cited specific areas such as Ebonesie, Ihiala, and Lilu that have felt the impacts of criminal activities and security efforts.
The Governor, who extended solidarity with President Ahmed Tinubu, the Muslim community, and all Nigerians, emphasized the importance of the Sallah holiday as a time for reflection and purification of the land.
“Let this Sallah period be a point of contact for general purification, encouraging those who are still loitering in camps to surrender and seek rehabilitation,” he said, highlighting that “no progress can be made without security and law and order.”
In his remarks, Major General Adewale Adekeye noted that the Special Sallah event serves as not only a celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces.
He reiterated the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony while upholding laws in the community. “We celebrate and remember the sacrifices of everyone, including the pilgrims,” he mentioned, as he commended the troops of Operation Udoka for their dedication and achievements in the field.
He further drew inspiration from the life of Prophet Mohammed (Peace be upon him), underscoring the importance of sacrifice for the greater good. “We must be willing to sacrifice, just like him, in our ongoing mission to ensure security and stability,” he said.
As the call for collaboration resonates, Governor Soludo’s message is clear: the fight against criminality requires the unwavering support of all stakeholders, and together, a safer Anambra can be achieved.
