The Mayor of Umuahia South Local Government Area, Philip Enwereuzo, has said his administration is strengthening partnerships with security agencies to tackle insecurity and drug abuse in the area.
Speaking on Monday at his office in Apumiri Ubakala, Enwereuzo explained that the council had also introduced youth empowerment initiatives aimed at maintaining peace and reducing criminal activities within the LGA.
While acknowledging that insecurity is still a nationwide issue, he described Abia State and Umuahia South as “relatively peaceful”. He added, “We cannot afford to be complacent. We must continue to take the necessary steps to ensure total safety and security for our people.”
According to him, the council is collaborating with Operation Crush, the military, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force to safeguard lives and property.
He further revealed that the local government had set up the Umuahia South Vigilante Group to assist security agencies and respond swiftly to intelligence reports.
“Anywhere we receive information about a threat, we act immediately to nip it in the bud,” the chairman added.
Enwereuzo referenced a recent kidnapping case in parts of the LGA, saying prompt action by the vigilante group alongside state and federal security agencies resulted in arrests.
“Those arrested will be charged to court and the law will take its full course. This should serve as a deterrent to anyone considering criminal activity in this zone,” he added.
The mayor also reiterated the council’s opposition to drug abuse and trafficking, describing the menace as dangerous to young people. He disclosed that authorities recently demolished a notorious drug den in Umuahia South.
“Hard drugs have ruined many vibrant lives, and the government frowns on it. Drug cartels may be strong, but the government is stronger. We are monitoring them closely, and Umuahia South will not be a safe haven for their operations”, he said.
He noted that the council is working with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and community stakeholders to conduct awareness campaigns in schools and on radio programmes to educate residents about the dangers of drug abuse.
Enwereuzo also stated that more than 50 youths are currently participating in the TechRise programme, which provides training in ICT, artificial intelligence, and other digital skills, adding that the third batch commenced last week.
On agriculture, he explained that the council had established demonstration farms for cocoa, cassava, and habanero pepper in Umuhu, Amakama, and Umukabia to train farmers on modern farming practices and profitable crops.
He also praised the Abia State Government for its free education policy for primary and junior secondary school pupils, describing the initiative as a “magnificent” investment in the future.
