Analyzing the Operations of Agunaechemba(Anambra Security Outfit) Since Inauguration




Launch of Agunaechemba and Operation Udo Ga Achi

On January 18, 2025, the Anambra State government formally launched the Agunaechemba Security Outfit—a community-based security architecture established under an equally newly signed Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025. The same day, the governor also launched a new security operation known as Operation Udo Ga Achi made up of 2000 personnel from the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and troops of the Nigerian army, among others.

The initiative came as part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s broader commitment to reclaim public spaces from criminal elements, particularly in flashpoint areas across the state. 


Early Gains and High-Profile Operations

In just a few months of operations, the Agunechemba outfit has recorded notable achievements. Their crackdowns on violent gangs have led to the recovery of weapons, rescue of kidnap victims, and restoration of relative peace in several troubled communities.

One of their most high-profile operations involved the discovery of about 30 partitioned shallow graves around the premises of La Cruise Hotel (Udoka Golden Point Hotel) along the Onitsha-Owerri Road (a shrine, live ammunition, and blood-stained items within the hotel premises). The hotel was linked to kidnapping and ritual killings and was subsequently demolished in accordance with the Anambra State Homeland Security Law. 


Raids and Arrests in January

Also in January, there was a raid on two compounds at Isiagu Community in Awka South LGA used by kidnappers to detain hostages. Following confessions from arrested suspects and testimonies from victims, the buildings were demolished. 

In Enugwu-Agidi in Njikoka LGA, Agunaechemba in a joint operation with other security agencies, stormed a notorious hideout, resulting in a fierce gun battle. Several criminals were neutralized, and weapons including AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, and locally made pistols were recovered.

In the same month in Akwu-Ukwu and Oba, Idemili South LGA, Agunechemba operatives arrested two suspected kidnappers and five sex workers at a brothel. The building was demolished in line with the state's security law. 


February Operations: Arrest of "Fat One"

In February, at Owere Zukala, Orumba South LGA, the outfit arrested nine individuals, including an alleged gang leader known as "Fat One" suspected to be involved in kidnapping and ritual killings across Anambra and Imo states. Items recovered included motorcycles, power generators, and arms. 

Additional operations across various communities including Umunze, Lilu, Oba, and others have led to the arrest of suspects and recovery of weapons. 


Controversies and Allegations

But as the outfit continues its work, it hasn’t been without controversy. Reports have surfaced alleging extrajudicial killings, illegal detention, and extortion at unapproved checkpoints, particularly in parts of Aguata, Orumba, and Onitsha zones.

For example, human rights organizations, such as the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), have accused Agunechemba operatives of extrajudicially killing over 40 individuals within their first month of operation. These killings allegedly occurred without proper investigations or due process, raising serious human rights concerns.



The Owerre-Ezukala Incident

For instance, a specific incident on February 6, 2025, involved the killing of three artisans—Malachy Chimaobi Iwuanyanwu, Odinkalu Chinonso, and Kosisochukwu—in Owerre-Ezukala, Orumba South LGA. These individuals, the group said, were allegedly misidentified as unknown gunmen during a raid targeting kidnappers and ritual killers.

The human rights group in a damning verdict drew parallels between Agunaechemba and the now-defunct Bakassi Boys, warning against possible abuse of power.


Reports of Extortion

Allegations of extortion have also surfaced, indicating that Agunechemba operatives have been extorting motorists by collecting ₦200 at unauthorized roadblocks across various locations, including Nnobi, Ichida, Awka-Etiti, Igboukwu, Uga, and Umuchu. 


The Awada Landlords’ Association Incident

In March this year, a joint operation by Agunechemba and the Special Anti-Touting Squad reportedly invaded the office of the Awada Central Landlords Association. During this operation, properties worth millions of naira were destroyed, and three individuals, including a female clerk and two vigilante operatives, were allegedly abducted.


Accidental Shootings and Use of Force

Recently, an operative of Agụnechemba accidentally shot a woman (Chiamaka Okeke) in Nnewi. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening at the busy Ibeto Junction when the operatives, who were reportedly caught in a traffic gridlock while on convoy duty, began firing gunshots in a bid to clear the road.

It was the second time Agụnechemba operatives have been linked to such deaths, following the reported killing of another woman in Mgbakwu, Awka North, also in March. 


Enforcement of Unofficial Moral Codes

In addition, there have been troubling accounts of enforcement of unofficial moral codes, such as targeting individuals with dreadlocks or ‘inappropriate’ clothing, raising questions about the scope of their mandate. 


Final Thoughts and Key Questions

So, as the new security outfit carries on its work, it is necessary to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.
  • What has Agunechemba done right? 
  • Where has it fallen short? 
  • Are the allegations mere growing pains of a new security outfit or signs of systemic abuse that require urgent correction?
  • Is the Anambra State Government ready to do that?

The essence will not be to demonize nor glorify, but to take a balanced, evidence-based look at what this security outfit has become and what it must become to truly serve the people of Anambra.



Follow this link for our radio conversation on this subject matter. 👇

🔗https://www.spreaker.com/episode/analyzing-the-operations-of-agunaechemba-since-inauguration--65767874


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