By: Eberechukwu Ezennaya
Ahead of the forthcoming Anambra State gubernatorial election scheduled to hold on November 6, the East of the Niger has become a turbulent “don’t go area” for indigenes of the South East and by extension, the entire Nigerians.
Not ruling out the unwantton destruction of lives and properties across the Eastern zone of the country which had been known as a community of industrious and peace – loving people, the growing rate of insecurity and killings in Anambra State in recent times has generated ranches of fear down the nerves of elites and residents of the state.
Following the odd development in Anambra State popularly known as the commercial hub of the South East, the blame game has longtime taken over the stage. While some political mouthpiece had blamed the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, over the incessant atrocities committed on the shores of the state, the Pro – Biafra group had returned the shot at whom they described as wicked and selfish politicians. Other analysts shifted the critic to hoodlums whom they fingered as perpetrators of the heinous crime in the state while hiding under the IPOB covering.
As the effort of fishing out who is actually responsible for what is happening in Anambra State and of course, the totality of South East continues, Ndi Anambra may hardly erase the scare from this traumatizing injury coming at this point in their existence as a democratic conglomerate of rich cultural heritage.
The gruesome murder of husband to late Dora Akunyili, would not be easily forgotten. Dr Chike Akunyili, a renowned medical practioner was shot dead at Nkpor Junction upon his return from a function in Onitsha.
Two days after the assassination, The convoy of the House of Reps member representing Nnewi North, Nnewi South/Ekwusigo Constituency, Chris Azubogu, was reportedly attacked by gunmen and one of his drivers shot dead. Fortunately, Honorable Azubuogu was not in the convoy.
Earlier, the Igwe of Aguleri, Chief Alexander Edozieonu was killed along Ikem Ivife village by Ezu Bridge in Anambra East.
The shocking murder of the monarch confounded the Police and Aguleri community.
This is just to mention a few high profile assassinations in Anambra State amidst multiple killings and razing down of government institutions and facilities.
Although, the Police and the State Government have assured the state residents of being in control of the precarious situation, the helpless citizens have found little or no succor in the government outfit as attack on innocent lives geometrically increases daily; restricting fearless movement, political and economic activities in the South East.
In less than 33 days to the long anticipated Anambra state election, the Nigerian Army has launched operation Golden Dawn in the South East zone.
Addressing newsmen in Enugu 82 Division, the Chief of Army Staff, Major General, Farouk Yahaya disclosed that Operation Golden Dawn is a military initiative aimed at tackling the prevalent security challenges ravaging the zone and stabilizing peace in Anambra state.
As for me, the message from the Army chief is clear and simple. However, it has also heightened expectations of thr Easterners and every other person who’s observing the trends in the South East.
Therefore, the Nigerian Army in partnership with sister security agencies must redeem their commitment of restoring the peace and order that was lost in South East so that the masses can once again thrive in their socio – economic ventures without fear of harassment to humanity.