NewsGunmen attacks: Security heads visit Njaba, Okwelle, reassure residents
In the wake of the recent failed assault by unknown gunmen on the Njaba Police Divisional Headquarters in Imo State, security forces have taken swift action to bolster morale and restore public confidence. The heads of various security agencies in the state have carried out a crucial visit to the Njaba Police Divisional Headquarters, as well as to the Okwelle community, in a bid to strengthen security efforts and reassure residents of their safety.
The visit, which was organized shortly after the repelled attack on the police division, came at a critical moment for the area. There has been growing concern among residents due to the increasing number of attacks by gunmen, especially those suspected to be affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its paramilitary wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
In a press statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Police Command, ASP Henry Okoye, it was emphasized that the visit was a response to two major incidents. The first was the attack on the Njaba Divisional Headquarters, which was effectively repelled by police officers stationed there. The second was an assault on northern scrap dealers in the Okwelle community, also believed to have been orchestrated by the same group of gunmen.
According to ASP Okoye, these incidents prompted immediate action from the State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, who was determined to prevent further escalations of violence and maintain peace in the region. He led the confidence-building visit alongside several high-ranking security officials, all of whom played key roles in ensuring the state's security architecture remains robust and responsive to emerging threats.
Security Chiefs Present During the Visit
The visit saw the presence of a formidable array of security chiefs, each representing various branches of the state’s security apparatus. Among them was Brigadier General UA Lawal, who commands the 34 Artillery Brigade based in Obinze. The presence of military personnel in these visits underscores the seriousness with which the Imo State government is treating the recent attacks. The Nigerian Army has been involved in several operations to counter the activities of gunmen and restore stability in troubled areas.
Commander Oguta Naval Base, Commodore MB Salisu, also took part in the visit, representing the naval forces who, although typically associated with coastal operations, have been playing a supportive role in joint security efforts across Imo State. Commodore Salisu’s involvement highlights the inter-agency collaboration between the military, police, and other security bodies in tackling security challenges in the state.
Also in attendance was the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Affairs, Retired General Joseph Ogbonna, a seasoned military officer with vast experience in security operations. General Ogbonna has been instrumental in coordinating the efforts of different security agencies within the state, providing strategic advice to the Governor and ensuring that the state's security policies are effectively implemented.
Hon. Modestus Osakwe, the Commissioner for Homeland Security, was another key figure during the visit. His presence signaled the Imo State Government’s active role in ensuring that security measures are not just reactive, but proactive. Hon. Osakwe, whose ministry is responsible for safeguarding the internal security of the state, has been a strong advocate for community-based security measures that involve local stakeholders in the fight against crime.
Commendations for Officers' Bravery
During the visit, the officers stationed at the Njaba Divisional Headquarters were specifically commended for their bravery and professionalism in repelling the attack. CP Aboki Danjuma, who led the delegation, expressed his gratitude to the officers for standing firm in the face of danger, while also ensuring that no lives were lost and minimal damage was done to property.
The officers’ ability to repel the attack, despite being caught off guard, was hailed as a testament to their training and commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens in Imo State. CP Danjuma encouraged them not to rest on their laurels, urging them to remain vigilant and continue to prioritize the safety and security of the area.
Brigadier General UA Lawal also praised the officers for their valor, noting that their actions were crucial in preventing what could have been a more devastating attack. He assured the officers that the military would continue to work closely with the police and other security agencies to ensure that communities in Imo State are protected from such threats in the future.
Call for Community Vigilance
As part of the confidence-building initiative, the security chiefs also took the opportunity to engage with the local community during their visit to the Okwelle area. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by providing timely information about suspicious activities in their area. CP Danjuma emphasized that the success of security operations in the state depended not just on the efforts of the police and military but also on the cooperation of the people.
ASP Okoye, in his statement, reiterated that the security agencies are committed to safeguarding the state and ensuring that residents can go about their daily activities without fear. He called on the public to remain calm and assured them that every effort is being made to ensure that such incidents do not reoccur.
Conclusion
The visit by Imo State’s security chiefs underscores the seriousness with which the state government and security agencies are treating the issue of insecurity in the region. The collaboration between different branches of the security forces is a strong indicator that the state is taking a holistic approach to dealing with threats from gunmen and other criminal elements. As these security efforts continue, it is hoped that peace and stability will be restored to affected communities, allowing residents to resume their normal lives without fear of violence.
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