…As Igwe Ogadagidi receives new Enugu Command Comptroller
From Felix Ikem, Nsukka
The Comptroller of Immigration Service (NIS) Enugu State Command, Mrs. Nkechi Enete has sought the support of traditional rulers in the state to tackle insecurity and illegal migration in the state
Enete made the appeal in Nsukka on Thursday when she paid a courtesy visit to the chairman of Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council and the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area, HRM, Igwe Samuel Asadu (Igwe Ogadagidi) at his palace.
She said that traditional institutions in the state have a vital role to play in curbing illegal migration and insecurity in the state, and urged them to monitor and report illegal migration, as well as checkmate movement of non-Nigerians in their respective domains.
“Enugu command of the Nigeria Immigration Service is determined to contribute their quota in sustaining the improved security in the State.
“To achieve this, the command needs the cooperation of traditional rulers in the states by identifying and reporting illegal immigrants and their activities in their respective domains.
“We want to ensure that non-Nigerians in our midst are legal resident workers or visitors and that they operate within the context of the laws of Nigeria without posing security threat to the state and the country,” she said.
The Comptroller, who was recently appointed as the first female comptroller to head Enugu State command assured that genuine visitors and foreign investors in the states would always receive accelerated services and protection from the command.
He commended the traditional ruler for his royal blessings and warm reception accorded her and her entourage.
Responding, Igwe Asadu who is the immediate past Chairman of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, and Member Board of Trustee Council of Traditional Leaders of Africa, Nigeria Chapter assured the comptroller of the full cooperation of traditional rulers in the state.
“I appreciate your visit here today, it shows that you are committed to your duty and you have respect for traditional institutions.
“Be rest assured that traditional rulers in Enugu state will give your command all the needed cooperation needed to identify and flush out illegal immigrants and criminal elements in various communities and localities of the state.
“You have the backing of the law and that of the traditional ruler to go after undocumented immigrants especially those that are engaging in criminalities and coursing insecurity in some part of the state,” he said.
Speaking further, Igwe Ogadagidi stated that the state Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah has repositioned the States as investors’ destination choice in the country with his developmental strides, and urged the NIS state comptroller to partner with the state government to ensure that foreign investors settle down in the state.
“Governor Mbah has through his good economic policies and infrastructural development in all sectors of the state economy repositioned the States as a viable destination for investors.
“So, it’s expected that NIS in Enugu State will give foreign visitors all necessary assistance and protection to help them settle down, invest and help grow the state economy, Igwe Asadu added.
Wife of Igwe Asadu, Her Royal Majesty, Lolo Happiness Asadu, Chief John Okayi, Chief of Staff to the traditional ruler, and some cabinet members, were among those present during the courtesy visit.