Former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra State, Valentine Ozigbo, has expressed deep concern over the alarming security challenges facing the state.
Ozigbo decried the widespread silence among the elite, including religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations, as insecurity continues to erode the state’s social structure.
The Labour Party chieftain made these remarks on Tuesday while responding to a statement by Catholic priest Fr. Chibuzo Emmanuel Obimma, popularly known as Fr. Ebube Muonso. The priest, in a viral video circulating on social media, criticized the rising crime rate in Anambra and urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to take swift and decisive action against armed groups threatening the state’s peace.
Ozigbo painted a grim picture of the security situation in Anambra, describing the state as having the highest levels of insecurity in the South East region. “The situation has become so dire that no week passes without harrowing reports of killings and abductions. Shockingly, the state government appears unbothered, carrying on as though all is well,” Ozigbo lamented.
He further criticized what he described as a “conspiracy of silence” among influential individuals and groups in the state. “What is most troubling is the silence of the elitesreligious leaders, traditional rulers, business magnates, and civil society organizations while insecurity ravages our communities,” he said.
Ozigbo also condemned the state government’s reaction to Fr. Ebube Muonso’s criticism, particularly the derogatory comments from some officials, including the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.
“When Fr. Ebube Muonso bravely spoke out about the worsening security situation and challenged the government to act, he was met with insults from government agents. While one might overlook certain remarks due to the questionable character of those making them, the commissioner’s response was shocking and unbecoming of a public office holder,” Ozigbo stated.
He expressed disappointment at the commissioner’s use of offensive language toward a respected priest. “The fact that the Information Commissioner, who claims to be a knight of the Church, resorted to gutter language against a priest is disgraceful and unacceptable. This behavior tarnishes the dignity of public office and calls for an unreserved apology,” he added.
Ozigbo further emphasized that citizens have a right to criticize government policies in a democratic society. “When did it become a crime for citizens to voice their grievances about harmful government policies? Are we no longer in a democracy?” he asked.
The Labour Party leader urged Governor Soludo to prioritize the fight against insecurity and take concrete steps to dismantle the activities of non-state actors terrorizing the state. He stressed that decisive leadership is needed to restore peace and safeguard the lives of citizens.
Ozigbo’s statement reflects growing concerns among stakeholders in Anambra State as residents grapple with the consequences of unchecked insecurity. His remarks call for urgent action from both the government and society at large to address these pressing issues.
