A disturbing wave of concern has emerged in Anambra State as the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Chief Ken Emeakayi, publicly confirmed that criminal elements may have infiltrated the state’s Agunechemba security outfit. He expressed deep regret over mounting allegations that some operatives of the newly created community-based security network are using their positions to exploit and harm the very people they were assigned to protect.
Emeakayi voiced his disapproval in response to growing complaints that certain Agunechemba personnel have taken to extorting residents at gunpoint. According to him, what was supposed to be a force for peace and protection has been compromised by individuals with sinister motives. He stressed that Governor Soludo’s administration established Agunechemba and Operation Udo ga achi to push out criminals and not to shelter them within the ranks of law enforcement.
He revealed that investigations have shown that while some members pose as legitimate operatives during the day, they transform into kidnappers and armed robbers by night. Emeakayi said this betrayal of public trust is a serious breach and must be urgently addressed. He noted that many of the erring operatives have not received payment because they failed to undergo the mandatory verification and profiling exercise, which began in January. Rather than follow due process, they have reportedly been avoiding it.
He made it clear that any individual claiming to be part of the security outfit must submit themselves for screening. Anyone who refuses to do so, he said, will be treated as a suspect. Emeakayi insisted that the state must maintain strict control over the identity of every gun holder and the use of those weapons in line with the Homeland Security Law. This law, according to him, mandates that authorities must always know who owns a firearm within Anambra State and where each weapon is located at any time.
In a strong call to action, he urged citizens to stay alert and report any misconduct by members of the security team. He appealed to communities to speak up, document suspicious activities, and provide any helpful details, such as vehicle information if available. Emeakayi emphasized that accountability is key, and any operative found engaging in illegal acts or abusing their role will face the full weight of the law.
He also encouraged residents to not only report known criminals but also security officers suspected of aiding or abetting criminal behavior. He warned that there is no room in Anambra’s security structure for individuals who pretend to serve the public while secretly working against it. He reminded the public that Agunechemba exists in every community, local government area and at the state level, making it easier for people to observe and report misconduct wherever it happens.
The situation has sparked concern among citizens who now wonder how deeply the rot might run within the ranks of the security team. Emeakayi’s remarks, while alarming, also signal a readiness on the part of the state government to clean up the outfit and restore public confidence. As verification efforts continue, many are hoping that the coming days will bring greater clarity, accountability and a renewed commitment to real security and justice in Anambra State.
