By Rose Oranye
The Anambra State Government has warned against the deliberate misrepresentation of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025, cautioning town criers and individuals spreading false claims that could incite fear and confusion.
In a statement issued by Dr. Law Mefor, Commissioner for Information,
the government condemned what it described as “reckless misinformation” regarding the new law.
“It
has come to our attention that some town criers are broadcasting falsehoods
about the Homeland Security Law, misleading the public with absurd claims,” Dr.
Mefor stated. “For the avoidance of
doubt, this law has nothing to do with dress codes or personal appearance.”
The government cited specific instances of misinformation,
including a claim that individuals wearing dreadlocks or sagging trousers would
be arrested and another, described as “laughably
false,” suggesting that women not wearing undergarments would face
detention.
“These
are outright fabrications, not provisions of the law, nor are they directives
from the state government,” Dr. Mefor emphasized. “Such falsehoods must stop immediately.”
Security
Crackdown on Criminal Elements
Clarifying the intent of the
law, the Commissioner reiterated that its focus is to strengthen security across the state and rid Anambra of criminal
activities linked to dangerous occult practices.
“Let
it be clear: the law targets criminal elements—those who aid and abet violence
through the preparation of dangerous charms such as Oke-Ite and Odeshi, which
give criminals a false sense of invincibility,” he said.
Dr. Mefor stressed that
security operations, including Agunechemba
and Operation Udo Ga-Achi, are
aimed at purging the state of
individuals who provide spiritual cover for kidnappers, armed robbers, and
other violent offenders.
New
Guidelines for Town Criers
Moving forward, the government
has issued strict guidelines for town
criers, stating that they must consult
their community Presidents-General before making any announcements.
“From
now on, any town crier found broadcasting falsehoods will be held accountable,
and the Presidents-General of the respective communities will also bear
responsibility,” Dr. Mefor warned.
He further advised community
leaders to seek direct clarification
from the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor (SPAD) on Community
Security whenever in doubt about any provisions of the law.
“We
urge all community leaders to take this directive seriously,” Dr.
Mefor stated. “The spread of
misinformation can create unnecessary panic, undermine security efforts, and
derail the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.”
The Anambra State Government
reaffirmed its commitment to security,
order, and public enlightenment, urging residents to verify information
from official sources.
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