The Mayor of Umuahia South Local Government Area, Philip Enwereuzo, says his administration has intensified collaboration with security agencies to fight drug abuse and insecurity in the area.
He revealed that the local council has launched new youth empowerment programs to sustain peace and reduce crime in the council area.
Enwereuzo disclosed this on Monday in his office in Apumiri Ubakala.
He stated that although insecurity remains a national challenge, he maintained that Umuahia South and Abia State at large are “relatively peaceful”.
He said, “We cannot afford to be complacent. We must continue to take the necessary steps to ensure total safety and security for our people.”
He disclosed that the local government is working closely with Operation Crush, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force in its efforts to protect lives and prosperity.
The council boss added that the LG has established the Umuahia South Vigilante Group to support security operations and respond quickly to intelligence reports.
“Anywhere we receive information about a threat, we act immediately to nip it in the bud,” the chairman added.
He cited a recent kidnapping incident in parts of the LGA, noting that swift intervention by the vigilante group in collaboration with state and federal security agencies led to 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 reaffirmed the council’s stance against drug abuse and trafficking, describing it as a threat to young people.
He revealed that a notorious drug spot in Umuahia South was recently demolished by government operatives.
“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 added that the Council is partnering the NDLEA and community stakeholders to run sensitisation campaigns in schools and on radio to educate residents on the dangers of drug abuse.
“Over 50 young people are currently enrolled in the TechRise program, which trains participants in ICT, artificial intelligence, and other digital skills. The third cohort began last week”, he stated.
On agriculture, he said the council is running a demonstration farms for cocoa, cassava, and habanero pepper in Umuhu, Amakama, and Umukabia, to educate farmers on modern techniques and profitable crops.
He commended the Abia State government for providing free education for primary and junior secondary school students, describing it as a “magnificent” investment in the future.
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