Soludo Claims Anambra Now Nigeria’s Safest State After Security Overhaul

Governor Charles Soludo has declared Anambra State the safest state in the country, citing significant improvements in security and public safety over the past few months. According to the Governor Soludo, the state has recorded no major security incidents within a three-to-four-month period, while more than 60 criminal camps have been dismantled. He described the development as a reflection of deliberate reforms and coordinated security efforts under his administration.

Speaking during a live media chat in Awka, the state capital, Soludo emphasized that normalcy has returned to communities previously under siege. Soludo highlighted the restoration of peace across eight local government areas and noted a surge in social and economic activities, especially during the festive season, which saw thousands of visitors trooping into the state daily.

Governor Soludo Highlights Security Gains and Restoration of Public Confidence

Governor Soludo attributed the improved security situation to decisive actions taken against criminal networks operating within the state. He disclosed that over 60 camps used by criminal elements had been cleared, significantly weakening their operational capacity and restoring confidence among residents.

He further pointed to the festive season as evidence of renewed public trust, noting that the state recorded one of its most vibrant Christmas periods in decades. According to him, daily visitor numbers exceeded 10,000, signaling a return of social life and economic vibrancy in key urban centres.

The governor also stressed that the absence of major incidents within recent months underscores the effectiveness of ongoing security strategies. However, he acknowledged that maintaining such gains requires continuous vigilance and adaptation.

End of Sit-at-Home Order and Economic Revival

A major highlight of Soludo’s remarks was the apparent end of the long-standing sit-at-home order previously enforced by Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He stated that the directive, which had disrupted economic and social activities across the South-East, no longer holds in Anambra.

As a result, schools, markets, factories, and public institutions have resumed full operations. The governor added that flights into the state have also normalized, including on Mondays, which were previously affected by the restrictions.

This development, he explained, has contributed significantly to economic recovery, allowing businesses to operate without fear and enabling residents to go about their daily activities freely. The restoration of routine life marks a turning point for the state’s socio-economic stability.

Institutional Reforms and Ongoing Challenges

Soludo credited the progress to a series of institutional reforms introduced since he assumed office. These include new legislation targeting touting and cultism, as well as the establishment of specialized security outfits such as Agunechemba and Operation Udogachi, designed to tackle emerging threats.

Reflecting on the situation he inherited in 2022, the governor described a climate of fear where residents could not openly associate with political parties or display branded materials without risking violence. He noted that even during the 2021 governorship election, campaign activities were conducted under severe threats, with reported fatalities.

Despite the improvements, Soludo maintained a cautious outlook, acknowledging that achieving absolute security is unrealistic. He described security as a continuous process rather than a fixed goal, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to consolidate current gains and address evolving challenges