Soludo Launches ‘Operation Udo Ga-Achi’ to Enhance Anambra Security

Governor Charles Soludo has taken a bold step toward securing Anambra State by launching the security initiative, ‘Operation Udo Ga-Achi,’ meaning ‘Operation Peace Shall Reign.’

The initiative, backed by the newly signed Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, deploys 200 vehicles and over 2,000 security personnel to combat crime and enhance safety for residents, businesses, and investors in the state.

The unveiling ceremony, held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the International Convention Centre, Awka, attracted high-profile attendees, including members of the Anambra State Executive Council, Senators, Governors, Mayors, Traditional Rulers, and the Diplomatic Community.

Details of ‘Operation Udo Ga-Achi’

A press release from Christian Aburime, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, emphasized that Operation Udo Ga-Achi unites personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police, Navy, DSS, Civil Defence, Special Forces, and the state’s Agunechemba security outfit.

The Agunechemba unit, established under the Homeland Security Law, will complement existing law enforcement agencies to ensure robust crime prevention.

Equipped with AI-powered surveillance cameras, tracking systems, and a command-and-control setup, the operation integrates cutting-edge technology, including video and data-based security tools, to monitor Anambra’s communities effectively.

Special task forces on drug control, anti-touting, cultism, and criminal idolatry are also part of this initiative, alongside state-wide patrols and stop-and-search operations.

Additionally, residents can report emergencies via the State Call Centre through toll-free lines 5111, 08002200008, and 112.

Governor Soludo’s Vision for Security

Governor Soludo explained, “This special intervention complements regular policing by upscaling intelligence gathering, rewarding whistleblowers, enhancing rapid response, and urgently rooting out criminals from any camp in Anambra.”

He further noted, “Security, law, and order remain pivotal to the attainment of my administration’s vision of a livable and prosperous homeland.

The character and dynamics of criminality in the Southeast and across Nigeria have evolved and become hydra-headed. The response must be thoughtful, deliberate, and comprehensive, involving both the kinetic and non-kinetic agenda.”

Motivational Incentives

To reduce crime, the government will partner with the Commissioner of Police and DSS to identify the top 10 LGAs with a history of violent crime and reward any that achieve a zero-violent-crime rate with a N10 million monthly bonus.

Whistleblowers and informants providing credible information leading to the arrest of criminals will receive rewards ranging from N5 million, depending on the criminal’s classification.

Amnesty for Criminals

Governor Soludo extended an olive branch to kidnappers, cultists, and drug dealers, encouraging them to surrender their weapons and register with the Office of the Security Adviser to the Governor for rehabilitation. The amnesty window is open until February 28, 2025.

Soludo also stressed the importance of collaboration, stating that effective security architecture requires collective action between local authorities, security agencies, and the public.