By Fresh Facts Correspondent
Awka, Anambra State
The Anambra State Police Command has lauded residents of the state for choosing dialogue and peaceful engagement over protests and illegal sit-at-home orders, which in the past have led to disruption of public peace and socio-economic hardship.
Following credible intelligence reports about a planned protest in some parts of the state, the Command conducted a comprehensive security situational assessment to evaluate the level of public preparedness and possible threats. The findings, according to the Command, revealed that Ndi Anambra have largely embraced dialogue and lawful engagement with relevant authorities as a more constructive means of expressing grievances.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command noted that this positive shift in attitude demonstrates the people’s growing commitment to peace, unity, and development. He added that the Command has put adequate security measures in place to sustain the prevailing calm and ensure that law-abiding citizens continue their legitimate activities without fear or intimidation.
“The Anambra State Police Command commends the good people of Anambra for their continued support and cooperation. We have observed with satisfaction that residents now prefer dialogue and peaceful resolution of issues rather than unpatriotic actions such as protests or illegal sit-at-home directives,” the statement read in part.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD, reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to maintain public order through proactive security strategies, community policing, and collaboration with critical stakeholders across the state.
Observers recall that previous protests and sit-at-home orders in parts of Anambra, especially in Onitsha, Nnewi, and Awka, often resulted in violence, property damage, and loss of lives. Markets were shut down, transport services paralyzed, and businesses suffered heavy financial losses. The shift towards dialogue, therefore, marks a significant improvement in civic behavior and collective commitment to the peace and progress of the state.
CP Orutugu emphasized that the Command will continue to prioritize intelligence-driven operations and strengthen partnerships with traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth organizations to consolidate the gains already achieved in peace and security.
The Police, while assuring residents of their safety, also urged them to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency hotlines.
