- Otti said peace in Abia resulted from planning and strong action against criminal threats since assuming office in 2023.
- The state’s Office of Homeland Security now delivers intelligence independently and acts swiftly when required.
The governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, on Thursday launched the Abia State Security Trust Fund to bolster efforts against crime.
The governor said security must be viewed as a shared obligation between the government, private sector and the people.
“Insecurity cannot be tackled by arms and ammunition alone. There is a need for the use of lawful force and social investment to build safer environments and discourage crime,” he said.
He revealed that the administration initiated Operation Crush in May 2023 to drive out criminals and enhance police operations with vehicles and logistics.
Otti noted that the Office of Homeland Security has become more effective, providing intelligence and acting independently when necessary.
He attributed the current peace in the state to strategic planning and swift action against criminal elements.
“Security is expensive, but inaction costs more,” the governor warned.
He called on philanthropists, individuals and businesses to contribute to the trust fund, saying it is backed by law and aimed at improving crime detection and deterrence through equipment and technology.
“We’re setting up a quick-response centre to improve coordination and public safety through real-time data,” Otti added.
He assured that all donations would be accounted for transparently and used prudently for security improvements.
“This is a continuous exercise. When we call, answer with generosity and duty,” he urged.
The deputy minister of labour, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, restated the federal government’s commitment to security during the event.
She said sustained peace in Abia would benefit the nation and appealed to citizens to report suspicious activity to security agencies.
“Security should not be left solely to the government,” she said, calling for active public support of law enforcement efforts.
The chairman of the ASSTF board of trustees, Stanley Obiamarije, hailed the initiative as a turning point for security in the state.
He commended the governor for revitalising the fund and promised it would operate under a public-private partnership model.
He added that transparency would guide the fund’s management and every donation would be documented and monitored.
Obiamarije explained that the fund would prioritise surveillance tools, communication systems and other security equipment.