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Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has dismissed allegations suggesting his reluctance to support the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Describing the claims as politically motivated misinformation aimed at undermining his administration's achievements, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to securing Mr. Kanu’s release as part of broader efforts to restore peace and stability in Nigeria’s South East region.

In a statement released by Dr. Law Mefor, Anambra’s Commissioner for Information, the administration accused opposition politicians of spreading falsehoods to discredit Governor Soludo, whose tenure has reportedly seen significant strides in fulfilling campaign promises. The governor’s dedication to resolving the issues surrounding Mr. Kanu’s detention has been evident through his actions and public pronouncements.

Governor Soludo’s visit to Mr. Kanu at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility underscored his commitment to finding peaceful solutions to the crisis. During the visit, the governor offered to secure Mr. Kanu’s administrative bail and assured authorities of his availability whenever needed. His advocacy for Mr. Kanu’s release is rooted in a belief that it would foster reconciliation and help end the unrest linked to the Biafra agitation.

However, Governor Soludo has voiced concern over the exploitation of the Biafra cause by criminal elements. These groups have used the agitation as a guise for perpetrating crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and ritual killings, which have destabilized the South East region. The governor warned that this criminal enterprise has not only undermined the legitimacy of the movement but has also created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, deterring investment and economic growth.

To address these challenges, the governor’s administration is launching a comprehensive security initiative, “Operation Udo Ga-Achi,” translated as “Operation Peace Shall Reign.” This initiative aims to restore order through the integration of advanced technology, community collaboration, and enhanced coordination with security agencies.

The programme includes the deployment of drones and CCTV cameras for surveillance, branded vehicles for stop-and-search operations, and recruiting and training forest guards to work alongside local vigilantes. Additionally, the operation emphasizes community engagement, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities, and strengthening collaboration with security agencies, including the police and military. Scheduled to commence this month, Governor Soludo expressed optimism that the initiative would significantly enhance security across the region.

The statement also highlighted Governor Soludo’s longstanding advocacy for Mr. Kanu’s release. In 2017, he led a delegation of Igbo leaders to visit Mr. Kanu in Kuje prison and later called for his unconditional release at a press conference in Abuja. This history underscores his consistent commitment to addressing the South East’s concerns through dialogue and peaceful engagement.

Despite these efforts, the governor acknowledged the complexities of resolving the crisis, expressing concern that some criminal groups exploiting the agitation might not heed Mr. Kanu’s directives upon his release. This challenge, he suggested, necessitates a multifaceted approach to restoring peace and stability.

The governor’s office dismissed recent allegations of indifference to Mr. Kanu’s plight as baseless and politically motivated. Dr. Mefor accused opposition figures of attempting to distract from the administration’s progress by spreading misinformation. He pointed to the governor’s achievements in improving security, infrastructure, and economic development as evidence of the administration’s focus on delivering results for the people.

Governor Soludo urged residents and stakeholders to remain vigilant against misinformation and to support government efforts to address the region’s challenges. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in tackling insecurity and fostering development.

“This administration is committed to building a safer, more prosperous future for all,” the statement concluded. “By working together, we can overcome the obstacles facing the South East and create an environment where peace and progress thrive.”

The governor reiterated his dedication to justice and peace, calling on all well-meaning individuals to join his administration in addressing the security concerns in the state and fostering a more stable and secure future.