In a bold and proactive step towards addressing rising security concerns, the Obinagu in Udi Local Government Area has inaugurated a Security Committee to manage and oversee the activities of the Obinagu Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guard.
The initiative Our reporter gathered marks the first of its kind in the Udi Local Government Area and is a significant contribution toward strengthening community policing and grassroots safety.
The inauguration ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including the District Police Officer (DPO) of Udi Division, CSP Jeremiah David; the Igwe-in-Council; the President Generals of the Obinagu Community; and the Councillor representing Obinagu Ward. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in combating insecurity and protecting lives and property.
Speaking at the event, CSP Jeremiah David emphasised the importance of lawful operations, urging members of the committee and the local security teams to carry out their duties within the framework of the law. He called on the youth of Obinagu to get more actively involved in community security.
“Security is everyone’s business,” the DPO stated. The Nigeria Police Force, Udi Division, is ready to partner with this committee to fight crime and ensure peace is sustained in this area.
The Igwe-in-Council of the community issued a strong charge to the committee to operate effectively and responsibly. He noted that the security of Obinagu is a shared priority and that the community would provide maximum support to ensure their success. He also cautioned against politicising the work of the committee, urging all autonomous communities in the area to unite for the common goal of securing lives and property.
We are one community under Udi, the Igwe-in-Council declared. Anyone found obstructing or sabotaging this committee, regardless of their community, will face the law. Security must never be politicised.
To further strengthen operations, the committee donated a fully equipped office space for the Neighbourhood Watch, which will serve as a central coordination point for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response activities.
Nze Sam Ikem, the President General of Enugwueze/Akpulu autonomous community, reaffirmed that the newly formed committee is not an alternative to the police but a vital partner in promoting effective community policing. He expressed gratitude to the police and community members for their cooperation and support.
Our intention is to complement the efforts of the Nigeria Police, Nze Ikem said. With growing insecurity, this partnership is critical for effective intelligence reporting and crime prevention.
The committee has been tasked with several key responsibilities, including coordinating the activities of the Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guard, monitoring movement within the community, identifying and reporting suspicious behaviour, managing funds transparently, and ensuring operational sustainability.
Rt. Hon. Chijioke Achime, Councillor of Obinagu Ward, expressed his excitement at the committee’s formation and praised their willingness to serve. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the vision of the Executive Chairman of Udi LGA, Hon. Hyginus Agu, whose administration has prioritised grassroots security and good governance.
This committee complements the great work our Executive Chairman is doing across Udi, Hon. Achime said. We are committed to supporting any effort that ensures our people live in safety.
Representing Commander Azubuike Enewaba the chairman of the newly inaugurated Security Committee, Barr. Amobi Igwenagu assured the community of their dedication to securing Obinagu. He emphasised that the welfare of security personnel will be a top priority and reaffirmed their commitment to working in close collaboration with the police.
We thank the people of Obinagu for the opportunity to serve, Barr. Igwenagu said. We will do everything in our power to support Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guard and ensure Obinagu remains safe and secure.
This security initiative is a shining example of community-driven efforts to combat insecurity and promote collaboration with law enforcement agencies. It also highlights the impact of proactive governance at the local level, reinforcing the commitment of the Udi LGA administration to peace, safety, and development.
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