Escalating Kidnappings Along Agwa–Okwu, Agwa–Ejemekwuru Roads Trigger Security Alarm as ACU President General Calls for Urgent Government Action
By Rita Onuoha
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
The President General of the Agwa Central Union (ACU), Mr. Nduka Ozor, has raised serious concerns over the worsening security situation across Agwa and its surrounding communities following a disturbing increase in kidnapping incidents along the Agwa–Okwu Road, Agwa–Ejemekwuru Road, and other adjoining routes.
The growing insecurity has left residents, commuters, farmers, traders, and visitors living in fear, while families of victims continue to endure emotional trauma, uncertainty, and significant financial hardship in desperate efforts to secure the release of their loved ones. The recent incidents have also disrupted economic and social activities, with many people now avoiding previously busy roads and communities because of safety concerns.
Speaking on the development, the President General of Agwa Central Union described the situation as unacceptable and called for an urgent, coordinated response involving government, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, youth groups, and other critical stakeholders.
According to him, while security agencies have continued to demonstrate commitment in confronting criminality, the increasing frequency of attacks suggests that additional support, improved intelligence gathering, and stronger collaboration with local communities have become necessary to effectively contain the threat.
He stressed that the protection of lives and property remains a shared responsibility and urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious movements or activities through appropriate channels. He cautioned against taking the law into their own hands, emphasizing that all responses must remain lawful and within the framework of existing security structures.
The ACU President General noted that the impressive turnout of young people during the recent Owu festivals in Mgbala and Obudi demonstrated the unity, strength, and organizational capacity that exist within Agwa communities. He observed that the same spirit of unity and collective responsibility should now be channelled toward supporting lawful community security initiatives, neighbourhood vigilance, and intelligence-sharing efforts aimed at denying criminal elements safe operating spaces.
He further disclosed that Agwa Central Union remains committed to working closely with traditional rulers, community development unions, youth organisations, women groups, religious leaders, security agencies, and government institutions to develop practical, lawful, and sustainable strategies capable of restoring lasting peace across the area.
The union also appealed to the Imo State Government, relevant federal security agencies, local government authorities, and elected representatives to urgently strengthen security presence along the affected roads and neighbouring communities. The appeal includes increased security patrols, intelligence-driven operations, surveillance of identified flashpoints, deployment of additional personnel where necessary, and improved logistical support for security operatives.
The ACU President General equally called on the Federal Government, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), local vigilante organisations operating within the law, and other relevant security institutions to intensify coordinated operations aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts and restoring public confidence.
He warned that failure to decisively address the growing insecurity could have far-reaching consequences for economic development, agricultural production, investment, education, and the overall wellbeing of the people of Agwa and neighbouring communities.
Reaffirming the union's commitment to peace, the ACU President General urged every resident to reject fear, embrace unity, and support lawful efforts aimed at reclaiming the safety, dignity, and stability of Agwa. He expressed confidence that through collective action, responsible leadership, and sustained government intervention, lasting peace can be restored across the affected communities.
