Aguocha to Convene Security Summit, Launch Community Safety Initiative in Ikwuano/Umuahia
The member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia
Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has announced plans to convene a major security summit as part of efforts to address the growing challenges of kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities across the constituency.
Speaking during a radio programme on Don FM in Umuahia, the lawmaker expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in the area, emphasizing that communities must become more proactive in protecting lives and property while working closely with government authorities and security agencies.
Aguocha noted that insecurity has become an everyday reality for many residents, revealing that his elder brother and two other individuals were abducted along the Okigwe axis several weeks ago.
He disclosed that the victims are still being held captive, adding that there has been no recent communication from the kidnappers or confirmation of their condition.
Describing the situation as alarming, the federal lawmaker urged residents to remain vigilant and united in confronting criminal elements.
According to him, communities cannot afford to rely solely on government intervention but must strengthen local security structures to complement ongoing efforts by security agencies.
“The issue of insecurity is real. The invasion of our communities by criminal elements is real, and we witness it daily through the increasing number of kidnappings. We must remain vigilant, work together and play our part because security is everyone’s responsibility,” Aguocha said.
The lawmaker disclosed that the proposed security summit, expected to hold next week, will bring together traditional rulers, President-Generals, youth leaders, community vigilante groups and representatives of various security agencies across Ikwuano/Umuahia.
He explained that the gathering is designed to develop a coordinated strategy for improving community security and enhancing collaboration among all stakeholders.
As part of the initiative, Aguocha said community security outfits would receive operational support, including motorcycles, walkie-talkies and drones to improve surveillance, intelligence gathering and rapid response, especially in forests believed to serve as hideouts for criminal groups.
He added that the programme would also encourage stronger cooperation between residents and security agencies through prompt intelligence sharing while urging community members to be familiar with those living within their neighbourhoods.
According to Aguocha, although the Abia State Government and security agencies are making efforts to combat insecurity, lasting success will require communities to take ownership of their local security architecture.
He stressed that strengthening security at the grassroots would contribute significantly to improving safety across the entire state.
“We want coordinated efforts. Security begins at home. If every constituency strengthens its security structure, it will contribute significantly to making the entire state safer,” he stated.
The lawmaker further explained that securing Ikwuano/Umuahia, which hosts the Abia State capital, remains a top priority, warning that unchecked criminal activities could discourage investment, hinder development and divert government attention from critical developmental projects.
Aguocha commended the people of Umuawa Community for establishing an organized local security network, describing their model as worthy of emulation by other communities across the constituency.
He praised the active involvement of youths, elders, churches and community leaders in the initiative, noting that effective security requires collective participation rather than isolated efforts.
Drawing from his experience as a former President-General of Ohuhu, Aguocha recalled that similar community-based security arrangements had previously delivered positive results and inspired neighbouring communities to establish their own local security structures.
Looking ahead, the federal lawmaker said his long-term vision is to establish a centralized security coordination system across Ikwuano/Umuahia that will enable real-time monitoring of security situations, improve emergency response and restore public confidence.
He observed that many farmers have become increasingly reluctant to visit their farmlands because of the fear of attacks, stressing that improved security is essential for economic activities and food production.
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Aguocha assured constituents that his commitment goes beyond public declarations, promising to back his words with concrete actions that will empower communities to better protect themselves while supporting formal security agencies in maintaining peace, safety and order throughout the constituency.
