Agunechemba: RULAAC commends Soludo's bold effort to fight crime

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By Madu Obi

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Center, RULAAC, a nongovernmental organization, has commended the Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, for what it described as his bold step in confronting growing violence, crime, and insecurity in the state through the newly established Agunechemba security outfit.

Executive Director of RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, in a statement, however, advised the operatives to approach the fight with professionalism, strict adherence to due process, and respect for human rights to avoid the crude methods previously employed by similar groups like the Bakassi Boys, which resulted in human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings.

Nwanguma said: "Governor Soludo has shown commitment to tackling the escalating violence that has tarnished Anambra's reputation, once seen as a hub of prosperity.

The decline in public safety has been palpable, especially during recent festive seasons, and Soludo's governance must reclaim the vibrancy of the state.

History shows that Anambra has faced criminal threats before, but has always risen to combat them. Despite criticisms regarding the timing and motives behind Soludo's actions, the fact remains that he has initiated a confrontation with these criminal elements".

According to him, the recent operations, particularly the one in Owere-Ezukala, Orumba South local government area, have raised serious red flags.

He added: "Reports indicate that Agunechemba’s actions may have led to the deaths of innocent individuals, mistakenly identified as criminals. This tragic incident calls for urgent and transparent investigations to prevent the erosion of public trust in the state's security measures.

The intrusive tactics used by the security outfit must be replaced with more strategic, scientific approaches, leveraging technology like drones for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering.

The goal should be to enhance operational effectiveness while protecting the rights of citizens."

He called on Governor Soludo to publicly address the incidents to reaffirm his commitment to justice and human rights.

"The success of his administration’s security strategy hinges on accountability and the assurance that such tragedies will not be repeated. Without this, the credibility of both the governor and the Agunechemba outfit remains at risk", Nwanguma stated.