The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, CP Adaku Uche-Anya, has identified cultism, communal clashes, murder, boundary disputes, and the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as the most pressing security challenges facing the state.
CP Uche-Anya made the disclosure during a working visit by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 9, Umuahia, AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, to the Ebonyi State Police Command.
She noted that since her assumption of duty as the 27th Commissioner of Police in the state on September 17, 2024, the Command has adopted several proactive measures, including community policing, intelligence-led operations, and targeted raids on criminal hideouts, to address these security threats.
According to her, “We have engaged key stakeholders in all thirteen local government areas, including community leaders and council chairpersons, to gather firsthand information and build tailored policing strategies. This approach has helped us manage communal issues and land disputes effectively.”
She cited the recent stakeholder engagements in Ekpaomaka and Inyimagu communities in Ikwo LGA as an example, noting that it led to the arrest of individuals fueling communal tensions.
However, the Commissioner highlighted manpower shortages as a key challenge hampering operations, a problem she said is prevalent across the Nigeria Police Force.
Thanking the AIG for his visit, CP Uche-Anya expressed optimism that the morale of officers would be boosted, assuring continued dedication to reducing crime in Ebonyi State.
In his remarks, AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to combating cybercrime and other criminal activities nationwide. He urged officers in Ebonyi to uphold professionalism, avoid misconduct, and remain loyal to the Nigerian state.
“Discharge your duties in accordance with the rule of law and stay committed to the nation,” AIG Uzuegbu charged.
