Aba Network of Civil Society Organizations, an umbrella body of civil society organisations in Aba convened an emergency meeting on July 29, where they issued a communique, decrying the rising security concerns in Aba, the commercial city of Abia State.
The Network of CSO’s who thoroughly discussed issues on rising insecurity, recalled that the commercial city of Aba, known for its peace and vibrancy, has recently been marred by a series of security incidents that have left residents in fear and anxiety.
The Network CSO’s noted that since the first attack at the Milverton army checkpoint on May 17, 2024 there have been multiple assaults on security personnel by unknown gunmen, resulting in the tragic loss of both security agents and civilians.
“These disturbing events are rapidly altering the security narrative of Aba, creating an environment of uncertainty and apprehension among its citizens”, said Network CSO’s in a communique sighted by Daily9jaInfo.
According to the group, “The rising insecurity poses a significant challenge to the status of Aba as the commercial nerve centre of the east. The planned nationwide protest against hunger and bad governance, set to commence on August 1, has further heightened tensions.”
“There is a palpable fear that the protest could be hijacked by hoodlums to incite further violence, and concerns that security forces might confront protesters, despite directives from the Inspector General of Police for Commands to provide security for peaceful demonstrators,” the group said.
Read below the communique issued by Aba Network of Civil Society Organizations, an umbrella body of civil society organisations in Aba convened an emergency meeting on July 29, signed by eight members of different civil society organizations.
- Decry the Escalating Security Concerns: We strongly condemn the ongoing attacks on security personnel and civilians across the city. These acts of violence are unacceptable and must be addressed with urgency.
- Call for Government and Security Agency Action: We urge the state government and all relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to uncover the root causes of the growing insecurity in Aba and take decisive measures to combat it.
- Demand for Protesters Protection: In line with the directives of the Inspector General of Police, we demand that the Commissioner of Police in Abia State ensures adequate police protection for all intending protesters. The right to peaceful protest is enshrined in our constitution and must be upheld.
- Call for Peaceful Protests and Vigilance: We urge all Aba residents to conduct the planned protests peacefully and responsibly. It is imperative that we remain vigilant, identify, and report any individuals or groups attempting to hijack the protest to incite violence. Protecting our city is a collective responsibility, and we must work together to maintain peace and order.
Aba Network of Civil Society Organizations remains committed to advocating for the rights and safety of all residents. We call on all stakeholders, including the government, security agencies, and the general public, to join hands in safeguarding our city and ensuring that Aba remains a haven for its inhabitants and a beacon for potential investors.
Signed,
1. Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor Executive Director Foundation For Environmental Rights,Advocacy & Development(FENRAD).
2. Okoye, Chuka Peter. Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS)
3. Oluchi kalu. Executive Director, Oluchi Kalu Girl Child Foundation (OKGCF).
4. Godson Ibekwe-Umelo. Executive Director, Community Alliance Against Poverty.
5. Eunice Egbuna, Executive Director, Initiative for Grassroots Interventions and Development (IGIDE).
6. Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu, Executive Director, Vivacious Development Initiative. (Secretary Aba Network of CSOs)
7. Obinna Nwagbara, Executive Director, Youth and Students Advocates for Development Initiative. (Chairman, Aba Network of CSOs)
8. Engr. Leonard Onyemesiri. Team Lead/CEO, Great Development for Youths Initiative.
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