Watch Agunechemba Security Outfit In Anambra, Please! (OPINION)

By Isaac Asabor

According to an African proverb, “If the keg of palm-wine is not quickly snatched from the hands of an exuberant drunk, he may drink himself to stupor.” Another proverb says, “If an overzealous child is not assisted by his elders when roasting yams in the farm, he may innocently set the farm and the hut ablaze.”

These proverbs aptly illustrate the potential repercussions of the Agunechemba Security Outfit’s policing activities in Anambra if not closely monitored.

The reason for the forgoing view cannot be farfetched as the Agunechemba Security Outfit in Anambra State has recently come under intense scrutiny following its operations, particularly in Owerre-Ezukala. The claims surrounding the group’s tactics and the tragic incidents that have occurred necessitate a closer examination of their methods, accountability, and the implications for public trust in the state’s security measures.

In Nigeria, the history of local security outfits is marked by a blend of community-based initiatives and controversial actions. One notable example is the Bakassi Boys, a vigilante group that emerged in the late 1990s in the southeastern region. Initially praised for their effectiveness in combating crime, the Bakassi Boys soon became infamous for their brutal methods, including extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. Their actions underscored the dangers of unchecked vigilante justice and highlighted the need for oversight and adherence to the rule of law.

The recent operations of the Agunechemba Security Outfit, particularly in Owerre-Ezukala, have raised serious concerns. Reports indicate that the group’s actions may have led to the deaths of innocent individuals, mistakenly identified as criminals. This tragic incident calls for urgent and transparent investigations to prevent the erosion of public trust in the state’s security measures. The actions of the Agunechemba Security Outfit must be scrutinized to ensure that they do not repeat the mistakes of their predecessors.

Mr. Nwanguma, a human rights advocate, has emphasized the need for the Agunechemba Security Outfit to avoid the crude methods previously employed by groups like the Bakassi Boys. He argues that the intrusive tactics used by the security outfit must be replaced with more strategic, scientific approaches, leveraging technology such as drones for reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. The goal should be to enhance operational effectiveness while protecting the rights of law-abiding citizens.

Governor Charles Soludo’s administration must publicly address the incidents involving the Agunechemba Security Outfit to reaffirm its commitment to justice and human rights. The success of the administration’s security strategy hinges on accountability and the assurance that such tragedies will not be repeated. Without this, the credibility of both the governor and the Agunechemba outfit remains at risk.

Accountability is not merely a buzzword but a fundamental principle of good governance. It ensures that those in positions of power are held responsible for their actions and that their decisions are subject to scrutiny. In the context of security operations, accountability is essential to maintain public trust and prevent the abuse of power. Transparent investigations into the recent incidents involving the Agunechemba Security Outfit will demonstrate the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of its citizens.

However, not everyone agrees with the narrative of mistaken killings. Law Mefor, the Information Commissioner, has stated that there was no case of ‘mistaken’ killings in Owerre-Ezukala or elsewhere, asserting that the Agunechemba Security Outfit has been meticulous in their operations. According to Mr. Mefor, those who died were hit during a crossfire, contrary to the narrative that they were killed at a construction site where they were contracted to carry out POP works. He pointed out that there are camps with improvised explosive devices around the bushes in the area, as seen in videos, and that the deceased must have died during the crossfire.

This contrasting perspective highlights the complexity of the situation and the need for thorough investigations to ascertain the facts. It is crucial that all parties involved, including the security outfit, the government, and human rights organizations, engage in constructive dialogue to address the concerns raised and ensure that justice is served.

The call for the Agunechemba Security Outfit to adopt more strategic, scientific approaches is timely and essential. In an era where technology plays a pivotal role in various sectors, it is imperative that security operations leverage modern tools to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Drones, for instance, can provide real-time reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, reducing the need for intrusive and potentially harmful tactics.

Moreover, technology can aid in the transparent documentation of security operations, providing an additional layer of accountability. Body cameras, surveillance systems, and digital record-keeping can ensure that security personnel adhere to standard operating procedures and that any deviations are promptly addressed.

The primary mandate of any security outfit is to protect the lives and property of citizens. However, this mandate must be balanced with the need to uphold human rights and ensure that the actions of security personnel do not infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens. The tragic incidents involving the Agunechemba Security Outfit underscore the importance of this balance.

Human rights organizations and civil society must play an active role in monitoring the actions of security outfits and advocating for the rights of citizens. Their involvement can provide a check on the potential excesses of security personnel and ensure that justice is served.

Governor Soludo’s role in addressing the concerns surrounding the Agunechemba Security Outfit is pivotal. As the chief executive of Anambra State, he must lead by example and demonstrate his commitment to justice, accountability, and human rights. Publicly addressing the recent incidents and outlining the steps his administration will take to prevent a recurrence will go a long way in restoring public trust.

Additionally, Governor Soludo must ensure that the security outfit receives the necessary training and resources to adopt modern policing methods. This includes providing access to technology, conducting regular training sessions on human rights, and establishing clear guidelines for the conduct of security personnel.

The Agunechemba Security Outfit in Anambra State has a critical role to play in maintaining law and order. However, their actions must be guided by the principles of justice, accountability, and respect for human rights. The recent controversies surrounding their operations serve as a stark reminder of the need for transparent investigations, strategic approaches, and the active involvement of all stakeholders in ensuring that security measures do not come at the cost of human rights.

Governor Soludo’s administration must take proactive steps to address the concerns raised, reaffirm its commitment to justice, and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Agunechemba Security Outfit. By doing so, they can restore public trust and ensure that the tragic incidents of the past are not repeated. The future of Anambra’s security landscape depends on the willingness of its leaders to embrace accountability, leverage technology, and prioritize the rights of its citizens.