Uzo-Uwani Chair Launches ‘Operation Kwechiri’, Deploys 320 Vigilantes, Security Vehicles to Tackle Insecurity
In a renewed push to stamp out insecurity across Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, the Council Chairman, Barr Chijioke Ezugwu, has launched a special security outfit tagged Operation Kwechiri, alongside four patrol vehicles and 25 motorcycles to boost surveillance across the 16 wards of the council.
The unveiling, which took place at Nkpologu on Thursday, mirrors the security reforms of Governor Peter Mbah, whom Ezugwu hailed for demonstrating strong political will and investing heavily in the state’s security architecture.
Ezugwu said Operation Kwechiri—comprising the Council’s Neighborhood Watch, State Forest Guards and other federal security agencies—is designed to ensure round-the-clock safety of residents in their homes, farms and on major roads. He added that the name “Kwechiri,” an Igbo expression, was chosen to signify resilience, courage and tenacity in the fight against criminals.
To strengthen the operation, the Chairman announced the deployment of 320 newly trained vigilantes as well as the procurement of a Hilux gun truck, three Sienna vans, 25 motorcycles and other security gadgets.
“We remain undeterred in protecting the lives and property of Ndi Uzo-Uwani. I am ready to lay down my life for my people. I do not issue orders from the comfort of my office; I lead from the field, even through the thickest bushes, to ensure criminals face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
Ezugwu also disclosed plans to establish a Command and Control Centre for digital monitoring of communities, farmlands and critical locations. In addition, major roads such as Adani-Opanda-Nkpologu-Obimo, Uzo-Uwani-Edem-Nrobo-Abi-Nimbo, and Uvuru-Ukpata-Umulokpa would be cleared to enhance visibility and security.
Beyond security, the Chairman said the council was fighting unemployment through youth empowerment programmes that have already benefitted over 1,000 young people, while boosting agricultural output in the area.
Governor Mbah, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Security, Mr Vincent Onyeabor, lauded Ezugwu for matching words with action, noting that the security situation in Uzo-Uwani had improved significantly compared to the early days of the current administration.
Also speaking, the Chief Security Officer, Government House, SP Osundu Ifeanyi, said the council chairman had “revved up the momentum” in the battle against insecurity, while the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Frank Anioma, urged local security operatives to make judicious use of the deployed assets.
The Area Commander, Nsukka Zone, ACP Stephen Gudu, commended the council boss for his proactive measures and charged the operatives to justify the confidence reposed in them.
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
