Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has expressed excitement over the return of indigenes to communities previously occupied by separatist elements.
Soludo said communities in Ihiala, Nnewi South Local Government Areas, which were previously in the hands of hoodlums who masquerades as freedom fighters have been retrieved.
He said he is happy that indigenes who were sacked since 2020 and 2021 have gradually returned as a result of consistent efforts by his administration in collaboration with security agencies.
In a message, the governor said: “Three years ago, I assumed office as your Chief Servant, and you entrusted me with the task of building a livable and prosperous homeland. From the moment I was sworn in on 17 March 2022, we knew that restoring peace and security had to be the foundation for everything else.
“We therefore deployed every available resource to confront the security crisis before us, at a time when deadly criminal gangs controlled parts of eight local government areas in the State.
“Many of you will remember that I myself was attacked by so-called “unknown gunmen ” while addressing youths at a rally in March 2021—an assault that left three policemen dead. In 2021, hardly any candidate could campaign freely in the seven local governments of the South Senatorial Zone. Fully aware of the danger, we resolved to meet it head-on.
“In recent weeks, I have watched several videos on social media showing life returning to every part of Ihiala Local Government Area, particularly the Ebonesie area of Orsumoghu, Isseke, Mbosi, Lilu, and Ubuluisiuzo.
“Seeing our people return to communities that had become desolate is proof of our long struggle against criminals who masqueraded as freedom fighters. I am delighted to see our people reclaiming their homeland.
“While we continue to commit Anambra into the hands of God, we must also rise as a people to cleanse and rebuild our land. Security agencies will continue to do their part, but we, as Ndi Anambra, must declare that enough is enough and take full ownership of our communities.”
Soludo insisted that his government was committed to ensuring that such affliction never returned, while urging everyone to reject negative indoctrination, and to weigh every sweet-sounding but empty slogan circulated online or offline by such groups.
