Oath-Taking Against Crime: Uzo-Uwani Communities Move to Curb Kidnapping, Insecurity
In a decisive move to confront rising insecurity, communities in Ogboli zone, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State have resolved to adopt traditional oath-taking as a deterrent against criminal activities, particularly kidnapping and related offences.
The resolution was reached on Friday at Igga village square during a security stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Chairman of Uzo-Uwani LGA, Mr. Chijioke Ezugwu, as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and rebuild public confidence in the area.
Ezugwu, who expressed deep concern over the surge in criminality, lamented that the situation had significantly tarnished the reputation of the local government and hindered its development.
“The level of criminality we are witnessing today in Uzo-Uwani is unacceptable. It has brought shame to our people and stalled progress. This must stop immediately,” he said.
The council boss reminded residents of the state government’s hardline policy on insecurity, including the demolition of any property linked to kidnapping activities. He warned that failure by communities to demonstrate genuine commitment to reversing the trend could trigger stricter enforcement measures.
“Government will not hesitate to act decisively. Any structure found to be harbouring kidnapped victims will be demolished. If I am not convinced that there is a sincere change, I will allow the full weight of the law to take its course,” Ezugwu cautioned.
In response, representatives from Igga, Ojjor, Adani, Asaba, and Ogurugu communities unanimously agreed to employ traditional mechanisms, including oath-taking, to expose and eliminate perpetrators of crime within their domains.
A community leader who spoke on behalf of the groups said the measure was necessary given the urgency of the situation.
“We have resolved to invoke the strongest traditional oath that will bring instant justice to anyone involved in kidnapping or any form of criminality. This is a collective decision to cleanse our land,” he declared.
Ezugwu subsequently gave the communities a one-week ultimatum to implement the resolution, stressing that tangible action must be taken within that timeframe.
He also directed the immediate establishment of a special joint security outfit, distinct from the existing neighbourhood watch groups, to tackle the peculiar security challenges confronting the area.
“You must set up a dedicated, well-coordinated security team that understands the terrain and can respond swiftly. The current structure is not enough,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Chairman of Enugu North Zonal Traditional Rulers Council and traditional ruler of Igga, Igwe Herbert Ukuta, assured the council chairman of their commitment to addressing the crisis.
“We will act swiftly and decisively. Our land must be free from crime, and we will not allow a few individuals to destroy our collective heritage,” Ukuta stated.
The monarch also issued a stern warning to the youth against engaging in criminal activities and substance abuse, urging them to embrace lawful means of livelihood.
“Young people must be careful not to ruin their future through crime and hard drugs. There is dignity in honest work,” he advised.
He further called on elders and community leaders to uphold their responsibilities as custodians of tradition and morality.
The meeting was attended by a cross-section of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, Presidents-General of various communities, councillors, youth representatives, and elders’ representatives, all of whom pledged renewed commitment to restoring peace and security in Uzo-Uwani.
The development marks a significant grassroots effort to tackle insecurity through a blend of traditional authority and modern governance, as residents seek lasting solutions to the persistent threat of crime in the area.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
