As public debate intensifies over the activities of the Imo State Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS), popularly known as “Tiger Base,” a security-focused media advocacy group, EYE-ON-SECURITY, has reiterated its strong support for the tactical police unit, warning that disbanding the outfit or removing its leadership could plunge Imo State and the wider South-East back into a spiral of violent crime.
The AKS, a tactical formation of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) headquartered in Owerri, has remained at the centre of controversy as of January 2026, facing allegations of human rights abuses from some quarters while simultaneously receiving commendation from security authorities and sections of the public for its role in combating kidnapping, armed robbery, and attacks attributed to so-called “unknown gunmen.”
In a statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator of EYE-ON-SECURITY, Comrade Monday Iyke Ojomah, and the National Secretary, Comrade Prince Komolafe Samuel, the group cautioned against what it described as “ill-considered calls” to dismantle the squad.
According to the statement, any attempt to disband the AKS or redeploy its principal officers at this critical period would “open the floodgates for criminal resurgence” in Imo State, which in recent years had gained notoriety as one of the most volatile flashpoints of insecurity in the South-East.
“The relative peace currently enjoyed in many parts of Imo State did not come by accident,” the statement read. “It is the result of sustained, intelligence-driven operations by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and other security agencies. Weakening this structure now will embolden criminal elements who once held communities hostage.”
Call for Reform, Not Disbandment
EYE-ON-SECURITY, whose mandate includes monitoring and advocating excellence within Nigeria’s security architecture, stressed that allegations of misconduct should be addressed through thorough investigation, institutional reforms, and enhanced professionalism—not the abolition of an operationally effective unit.
The group called for increased funding, continuous training and retraining, improved welfare, and stricter oversight mechanisms to ensure that the squad operates strictly within the ambit of the law while sustaining its crime-fighting momentum.
“Security institutions can be strengthened through reform and accountability,” the group noted. “Disbandment is not a solution; capacity-building and oversight are.”
Breakthroughs Under ACP Odeyeyiwa
The group also highlighted significant operational gains recorded by the AKS under the leadership of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa, whom it credited with revitalising the unit and restoring tactical discipline.
According to EYE-ON-SECURITY, major breakthroughs under ACP Odeyeyiwa include the rescue of abducted victims without ransom, the arrest of notorious kidnapping and armed robbery syndicates, and the recovery of sophisticated weapons, including assault rifles, ammunition, and locally fabricated firearms. The squad is also credited with dismantling criminal hideouts across Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe zones, leading to a noticeable reduction in high-profile abductions and attacks on both civilians and security formations.
Voices from the Streets
Beyond official statements, many residents of Imo State have shared testimonies reflecting the impact of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad on their daily lives.
A commercial bus driver operating along the Owerri–Okigwe axis, who identified himself simply as Chinedu, told Fresh Facts Magazine that the presence of the AKS has restored confidence among motorists and commuters.
“There was a time you could not drive this road after 6 p.m. without fear,” he said. “Kidnappers and gunmen were everywhere. Since Tiger Base intensified patrols and arrests, we now move more freely. We don’t want them disbanded.”
Similarly, a trader at the Relief Market in Owerri, Mrs. Ngozi Eke, recalled how frequent kidnappings once crippled commercial activities.
“People were afraid to open shops or travel with goods,” she said. “Now business has improved because criminals know security agents are watching. If there are issues, they should correct them, not remove the squad.”
In Orlu, a community youth leader, Mr. Uche Okorie, acknowledged that while concerns about human rights should not be ignored, the security gains are undeniable.
“We are not saying everything is perfect,” he noted. “But before now, our communities were under siege. The police, especially the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, pushed back the criminals. What we need is better training and monitoring, not dismantling.”
Balancing Security and Accountability
EYE-ON-SECURITY urged the Nigeria Police Force, civil society groups, and the media to pursue a balanced approach that safeguards human rights while recognising the complex realities of policing in a conflict-prone environment.
“Accountability must go hand in hand with security,” the group concluded. “Imo State cannot afford a return to the dark days of unchecked violence. Strengthening, reforming, and properly funding effective security units like the Anti-Kidnapping Squad remains the most responsible path forward.”
Attempt to reach the Commander of the outfit ACP Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa and the Imo State PPRO DSP Henry Okoye, as at the time of filing this report proved abortive.
As investigations and public debates continue, many residents say they hope authorities will strike a careful balance—one that ensures justice, professionalism, and sustained peace in Imo State and the entire South-East.
