The Association of South East Vigilant Group (ASEG) Lauds Governor Soludo’s Appointment, Says Criminals Have Been Routed Out

The Association of South East Vigilant Group (ASEG) has showered accolades on High Chief Kenneth Emekayi, popularly known as Ike Okija, for his remarkable leadership and expertise in overseeing security operations in Anambra State.

The commendation came during a well-attended press conference in Enugu, where ASEG’s Commander General, Chief Emmanuel Ojukwu (CSP, rtd), praised Emekayi’s outstanding efforts in reclaiming Anambra from the grip of criminal elements.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo had appointed High Chief Emekayi, who hails from Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area, as his Special Adviser on Community Security. Since assuming office, Emekayi has been at the forefront of combating crime and restoring safety across the state.

Reclaiming Anambra from Criminal Elements

Addressing journalists, Chief Ojukwu highlighted the dire security situation before Emekayi took charge. He recalled that out of Anambra’s 21 local government areas, 15 had been overrun by criminals, including kidnappers, armed robbers, and violent groups operating under the guise of "unknown gunmen."

"Before Emekayi’s appointment, many communities lived in fear. Kidnapping, killings, and robberies were rampant. Criminals had created terror zones across the state, making life unbearable for residents,” Ojukwu stated.

However, in just a few months under Emekayi’s leadership, the tide has turned. The once-dangerous territories have been reclaimed by the Anambra Vigilante Group, known as Agunechemba, with many criminal hideouts dismantled.

"Communities such as Umunze, Ogbunka in Orumba South, Ihiala, Ogbaru, Ekwusigo, Nnewi South, and Aguata were under siege. But with Emekayi's strategic approach, these areas have witnessed significant improvements in security," he added.

Major Breakthroughs in Security Operations

ASEG reported that several local governments that were previously considered no-go areas due to high criminal activities have now been liberated.

"Umunze, Ogbunka in Orumba North and South, and Ihiala are now about 90 percent free of criminal activities, while Aguata and Nnewi are fully secured," Ojukwu declared.

One of the most notable achievements under Emekayi’s watch was the reclaiming of Ogbe-Ukwu in Ogbaru Local Government Area, which had long been regarded as the headquarters of kidnappers in the state.

"It was from Ogbe-Ukwu that notorious criminals orchestrated the abduction and murder of Hon. Justice Azuka," Ojukwu recalled.

However, he noted that through relentless efforts by Agunechemba security forces, Ogbe-Ukwu is now fully under government control, and normalcy has returned to the area.

Soludo’s Vision for a Safer Anambra

ASEG lauded Governor Soludo for making the bold decision to entrust the state’s security framework to Emekayi. According to Ojukwu, the governor’s commitment to fighting crime is evident in the swift actions taken since Emekayi’s appointment.

"This is a clear testament to Soludo’s determination to restore peace in Anambra. His choice of Emekayi was not only strategic but also timely," Ojukwu noted.

He further emphasized that Emekayi’s professional approach to security, community engagement, and intelligence-driven operations have played a critical role in restoring law and order across the state.

A Call for Continued Vigilance

While applauding the remarkable progress made, ASEG urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to sustain the current peace and stability.

"The fight against crime is a continuous one. We encourage citizens to report suspicious activities and work closely with security operatives to ensure lasting peace," Ojukwu said.

He also reaffirmed ASEG’s commitment to supporting Emekayi and his team in their mission to make Anambra one of the safest states in Nigeria.

With the ongoing crackdown on criminal elements, many Anambra residents are beginning to regain confidence in the security structure of the state. Under Emekayi’s watch, Anambra is steadily reclaiming its reputation as a safe and secure place for all.