Onslaught of hoodlums in Imo has been contained, says Uzodimma

Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo, says his administration has done all within its powers to protect lives and properties in the state. 

The governor spoke on Tuesday at an event to hand over 10 armoured personal carriers (APCs) and other vehicles to the police command in the state.

The south-east has been grappling with insecurity occasioned by the activities of gunmen targeting residents, security operatives and public infrastructure.

Addressing the police officers, Uzodimma said with the cooperation of security agencies in the state, the activities of gunmen have reduced significantly.

“Thanks to your courage and professionalism, we have been able to contain the criminal onslaught of hoodlums and their sponsors who vowed to make Imo governable for me,” he said.

He added the three arms of government — federal, state and local government — must work in synergy to effectively tackle insecurity.

He also said since assuming office, his administration has worked hard to provide security through availability of equipment to boost the operations of security agencies.

“This is the second time the inspector-general of police is coming to commission armoured personal carriers (APCs) in Imo state. The government and people of Imo state are very grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari and the head of security agencies in Nigeria for their commitment and efforts to restore peace in Imo state,” he said.

“I must commend Imo state police command for their gallantry in restoring peace and order in Imo. The reality is that all tiers of government must synergise to boost the security of lives and properties in Nigeria.

“Since my assumption of office, I have worked hard to provide security in the state. Shortly after I assumed office, I procured over 100 patrol vehicles equipped with modern gadgets for security agencies in the state.”

The governor also said it is the responsibility of the state to support the police with the necessary equipment to provide the highest level of security.

He added that the state will take all necessary steps to ensure the perpetrators of violence do not continue with their attacks.

“Those who shed blood to get to power should know that they will give an account of their lives here on earth and hereafter. They should give peace  the chance it deserves,” he said.

“I will continue to do my best to ensure that Imo is safe for everyone including investors. Our youths should know that crime does not pay and should not allow politicians to use them for their selfish interests.”

In his remarks, Usman Baba, inspector-inspector general of police, said the governor has demonstrated that he is committed to the security of residents.

“Any nation desirous of security of its citizens must enhance the capacity of security personnel. Procurement of these security gadgets will significantly improve security in Imo state,” he said.

“I, thereby, call on other state governors in the country to emulate Imo state governor, Hope Uzodimma, in supporting security personnel with needed gadgets and equipment for a peaceful Nigeria.”

Baba also asked the governor to support the training of security personnel to boost their skills for the effective discharge of their duties.