The Association of South East Vigilant Group (ASEG) has commended High Chief Kenneth Emekayi (Ike Okija) for his professionalism and leadership in restoring security in Anambra State since assuming office as the special adviser on community security to Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Speaking at a press conference in Enugu, the commander general of ASEG, Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu (CSP rtd.), praised Emekayi’s efforts in reclaiming areas that were previously under the control of criminals. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo for appointing Emekayi to lead the Anambra Vigilant Group, also known as Agunechemba.
“It could be recalled that before Emekayi’s assumption of office, the state was overrun by criminals masquerading as unknown gunmen. Out of 21 local governments in the state, criminals controlled 15, engaging in kidnapping, robbery, and killings, which created serious insecurity and tension,” Ojukwu stated.
He noted that under Emekayi’s leadership, many criminal camps have been dismantled, and several criminals have been neutralized. Communities such as Umunze, Ogbunka in Orumba South, Ihiala, Ogbaru, Ekwusigo, Nnewi South, and Aguata were once strongholds for criminal elements but have now been reclaimed by Agunechemba security operatives.
Ojukwu highlighted that Ogbe-Ukwu in Ogbaru Local Government Area, which was once a notorious headquarters for kidnappers, has now been secured. “It was from Ogbe-Ukwu that criminals kidnapped and killed Hon. Justice Azuka, but today, the area is fully under the control of Agunechemba security forces,” he stated.
ASEG urged Governor Soludo to continue supporting Agunechemba with logistics and operational resources to sustain the fight against crime. The group also appealed for an increase in officers’ salaries from N100,000 to N200,000, citing the rising socio-economic challenges in the country and the financial responsibilities many officers face.
“We believe that improving their remuneration will boost morale and enable them to remain committed to securing Anambra State,” Ojukwu added.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with the state government and other security agencies to ensure peace and stability in Anambra.