The army pushes for media cooperation and intensifies the war against insecurity in Anambra

The Nigerian Army has called on the media to cooperate and assist in its effective response to the current insecurity in Anambra State.

Adamu Muhammad, Colonel and Commander of the 302 Artillery Regiment (General Service), Onitsha, Anambra State, made the call on Thursday as some journalists paid him a courtesy call at his office.

He said efficient and well-functioning synergies of both bodies in information gathering and dissemination would help reduce insecurity in the state.

He called on citizens of the state to stop working as informants for the criminal elements who continued to kidnap, kill and collect ransoms from unsuspecting Nigerians.

“We, along with other security agencies, are ready to reduce insecurity in the state. We need your support and cooperation when there is an insecurity problem,” Muhammad said.

According to him, the temporarily closed road between Ihiala in Anambra State and Orlu in Imo State has become a gateway for criminal elements and one of the most dangerous areas in the South East.

“Here, some journalists traveling to Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State for the AFCON qualifier between Nigeria and Libya this month were attacked by suspected groups of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

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“The journalists, who were traveling in a chartered bus, were ambushed at Isseke community in Ihiala after taking a detour through Imo State.

“The attack, which is believed to have been orchestrated by anti-state elements, resulted in the tragic death of a police officer and some journalists.

“The Onitsha Army responded quickly after being made aware of the situation. Their quick action resulted in the rescue of six victims, with four others released shortly afterwards. However, according to the latest reports, two people are still missing, but we are continuing our efforts to find them.

“The operation was supported by technical and logistical assistance from the 302nd Artillery Brigade, Onitsha and the 82nd Division, Enugu to ensure that the troops were well equipped to deal with the crisis. The search for the remaining victims continues,” he reiterated.

He appreciated the support and encouragement of the General Officer Commander (GOC) 82 Division, Enugu, in the fight against insecurity in Anambra State.

He urged local communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security authorities.

“Safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he added.

Muhammad commended Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo for supporting security agencies in the state.

He also called for deployment of modern security equipment to deal with anti-state elements who are always prepared for their notorious activities.