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The ad hoc committee of the House of Representatives warns that the South-East region’s existence is endangered by the surge in violent crimes perpetrated by unknown gunmen and other criminal factions allegedly associated with IPOB and ESN.
The committee’s chair, Obi Agocha, voiced this view on Thursday in Abuja during discussions with security agencies, aiming to address the escalating issues of banditry, assassination, kidnapping, and other criminal activities in Abia.
He stressed that the essence of the interface was to address the insecurity that had overshadowed Abia, underscoring that multiple instances of insecurity had posed a significant threat to the region’s underpinnings.
Mr. Agocha acknowledged that the committee recognised the complexity of the issue and understood that a single solution couldn’t swiftly tackle the menace.
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However, the legislator emphasized that these challenges necessitated a collaborative approach, highlighting that both security agencies and all relevant stakeholders must be ready to address this menace.
‘We must collaborate to nip this crisis in the bud. We must work in synergy to create a stronger force against insecurity in the region,’ added Mr Agocha.
He mentioned that Umunneochi, situated in Abia, serves as the focal point of the battle, and it shares borders with adjacent states in the South-East.
The legislator raised a claim, contending that a majority of non-state actors, such as IPOB and the Eastern Security Network, often perpetrate crimes in the area and escape to neighboring states.
The chair conveyed their dissatisfaction regarding the non-participation of security agencies in the hearing, making it clear that the lawmakers would not accept or tolerate such behavior.
The security agencies present at the meeting included the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
