Security alert: FENRAD urges government to intensify surveillance in Abia communities

Nkem Ukaegbu, Umuahia

Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy & Development (FENRAD) has expressed deep concern over the recent surge in kidnapping, armed robbery, and violent crimes in Isikwuato and Isuochi communities in Abia State.

According to FENRAD’s Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the series of coordinated attacks by gunmen has resulted in the loss of lives, including security personnel, and hampered businesses.

The spate of insecurity in these areas, once considered relatively safe, has heightened fears and disrupted the socioeconomic activities of residents.

FENRAD condemned the criminal activities that have led to the abduction of innocent citizens, attacks on commuters, and the general atmosphere of fear and lawlessness across rural communities in these localities.

We call on the Abia State Government, the Nigerian Police Force, and all relevant security agencies to urgently overhaul the current security architecture in Isikwuato and Isuochi and deploy adequate personnel and logistics to the affected areas. There is a pressing need for visible, community-sensitive policing and the activation of intelligence-driven surveillance mechanisms to dismantle criminal syndicates operating in the region.

According to recent reports and local eyewitnesses, security checkpoints are either inactive, under-equipped, or compromised, allowing criminal elements to operate freely. This situation is unacceptable and requires immediate corrective action.

“No meaningful development, environmental or otherwise, can occur in an atmosphere of insecurity. Communities must feel safe before they can thrive. We cannot continue to allow rural areas to become soft targets for violent crimes,” said Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, Executive Director of FENRAD.

FENRAD further urged traditional rulers, local government authorities, community-based organizations, and youth groups to work collaboratively with law enforcement to identify suspicious activities and ensure the safety of their communities.

We also call on the Nigerian government at the federal level to support state-led efforts by improving intelligence sharing and ensuring that security interventions are not politicized or delayed.

Security is a fundamental right. The people of Isikwuato and Isuochi deserve to live without fear. FENRAD stands with these communities and demands swift, transparent, and accountable responses to restore peace and order.