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From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The House of Representatives has said there is a need for concerted efforts to tackle the challenge of banditry and kidnapping and other forms of criminality in Abia State and other parts of the country.
The Chairman, House Ad-hoc Committee to interface with the relevant security agencies on the spate of kidnapping, assassinations and banditry in Isiukwuato and Umunnochi Local Government Areas of Abia State, today, and environs, Obi Agocha, stated this, on Thursday, at an investigative hearing organised by the panel.
The House, recently adopted a motion by Amobi Ogah, a member representing the Umunneochi/ Isiukwuato Federal Constituency of Abia State, calling attention to the spate of kidnapping and other forms of criminality in the federal constituency.
However, Agocha stated that the security challenges in the area require a multi-faceted approach as well as the collaboration of security agencies, community leaders and citizens, as no one entity can tackle the problem alone.
According to him, “The challenges we face are not mere statistics or headlines; they are real-life manifestations that affect the lives of our people, disrupt the functioning of our institutions, and impede the growth of our region.
“Instances of criminal activities, banditry, kidnapping, assassinations, communal clashes, and threats to life have shaken the very foundation of our societies. As leaders and stakeholders, it is incumbent upon us to come together, transcending our differences, to find sustainable solutions that will quell these threats and pave the way for a brighter future.
“Our commitment to addressing this crisis is evident in our presence here today. We recognize that insecurity cannot be combated by one entity alone; it requires a collective, multi-faceted approach that encompasses the perspectives and expertise of law enforcement agencies, community leaders, policymakers, scholars, and citizens.
“This Committee Hearing provides us with the opportunity to harness these diverse perspectives and channel them into a coherent, action-oriented strategy. As we navigate the complexities of security concerns, it is crucial to acknowledge that no single solution can provide a quick fix.
“It requires a holistic approach that encompasses law enforcement, community engagement, socio-economic development, and effective engagement from government. We must be prepared to tackle the issues at their core and work collaboratively to ensure lasting solutions that would stand the test of time.
“The cross-border dynamics of the primary focus area bring additional complexity to the challenges of the task ahead. The common borders, shared with 3 other states connect the primary focus area to Ebonyi State via Isiagu, Enugu State via Agwu and Imo state via Okigwe.”
The lawmaker further stated that “the opportunity for interstate collaboration presents itself and must be explored to foster regional collaboration. The challenges faced by one state ripple across its neighbours, and therefore, our strategies for resolution must be collaborative and inclusive. By synergizing our resources, expertise, and perspectives, we can create a stronger front against insecurity and strengthen the bonds that bind us together.
“This intricate landscape demands a comprehensive and collaborative approach to address the multifaceted security challenges. The effort has to accommodate the concept of back-channel negotiations, which may emerge as a potential avenue for a permanent conflict resolution in the South East.
“Such negotiations, when properly managed, can help bridge gaps, reduce tension and build trust between the non-state actions, state security agencies and the citizenry and provides an alternative pathway towards stability, security and cooperation, and in line with the rule of law to ensure lasting peace and security for the entire region.”
