From Sola Ojo, Abuja
The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Anambra State government, led by Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, to rid the state’s forests of criminal elements.
This offer comes weeks after a series of violent incidents, including the killing of a Catholic priest, the abduction of an Anglican clergyman, and the kidnapping of a state lawmaker.
The Anambra Commander of the NFSS, Destiny Jonas, stated in Abuja that the organisation is willing to offer its expertise in securing the forests and bushes for both economic and security purposes.
According to Jonas, the NFSS has a deep understanding of the terrain, having primarily operated in forests and bushes. He revealed that the NFSS has identified flashpoints across Anambra State and plans to launch extensive operations to dismantle criminal camps.
Jonas highlighted the organisation’s successful rescue of kidnapped victims during the yuletide season and emphasised the need for recognition and collaboration with government agencies to ensure the success of their operations.
He stressed that the NFSS’s efforts aim to make Anambra’s forests free from criminal activities, including deforestation, kidnappings, and other forms of criminality.
Jonas added that the NFSS is ready to join forces with other security agencies to support the Operation Udo Ga Di Na Anambra Security Initiative, which aims to eliminate criminal elements in the hinterlands.
“NFSS can gather intelligence to demobilise any kind of force in the forest. All that is needed is collaboration with government agencies and the recognition of the Nigerian Forest Security Service.
“Officers of the NFSS are ready to rescue Anambra forests from unknown gunmen and other criminal elements, but the need for recognition and roundtable discussions is of paramount importance,” he said.
Jonas expressed concern that investors are fleeing Anambra State due to insecurity. He highlighted areas such as Achala, Igbariam, and Nsugbe, which remain secure because of the presence of NFSS personnel.
He also expressed gratitude to the Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence) of NFSS, Amb. Dr. John Metchie, for his support, describing him as an enigma. Jonas further praised the efforts of the Commander-General, Amb. Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, for ensuring unity and cohesion within the service.