NOA TAKES SECURITY ADVOCACY TO CRITICAL STAKEHOLDERS IN ANAMBRA STATE

REPORTER: ALFRED AJAYI

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has launched a peace advocacy campaign aimed at stemming the tide of criminality and insecurity in Anambra State.

During one of the visits to the traditional ruler of Okpuno, Igwe Sunday Okafor, the Director of NOA, Mr. Charles Nwoji, said the choice of traditional institution for the advocacy was informed by the measure of influence they have on their subjects, which the government wanted to leverage on to tackle the worrisome trend.

He decried the worsening security situation across the country, including Anambra State.

Mr. Nwoji particularly bemoaned the recruitment of children and young persons into the crime industry.

“We must stem the tide of violent crime and criminality. Down here, arrests so far made indicate that young persons within our immediate society are involved.

“We know the influence of traditional rulers as custodians of culture. We plead with you to use your good position to talk to our youths to desist from crime. Help us mobilize fellow traditional rulers to key into this campaign, the NOA boss pleaded.

Responding, the traditional ruler of Okpuno and Vice Chairman, Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Okafor, noted that the country is in a critical time and all hands must be on deck to rescue it.

“I am sad that the state of insecurity has worsened to the point of recruiting child soldiers. We can’t a message like this. It will be disseminated through various quarters. I appreciated the efforts of NOA,” Igwe Okafor remarked.

During a similar visit to the Sarkin Hausawa, Awka, Alhaji Haruna Mohammed, the NOA Director, Mr. Nwoji, urged all public spirited Nigerians to rise against issues currently threatening peaceful coexistence in various parts of the country.

Welcoming the team, Alhaji Haruna, pledged the commitment of the Hausa community to peace and tranquility of Anambra and Nigeria.

“We will contribute in anyway possible. We have been cooperating and we are going to continue. Anambra State is our home. We will take this message around the South-East. We will continue to promote peace,” he assured.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU