Community leaders in Ebonyi State have applauded the Nigerian military for notable security improvements recorded under Operation UDOKA, describing the initiative as a major boost to peace, safety, and socio-economic activities across the South East region.
The commendation was made by the Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Barrister Sunday Nwankwo, during an operational visit by defence correspondents to assess the prevailing security situation in the state.
According to Nwankwo, the sustained deployment of military personnel has significantly reduced criminal activities in affected communities, restoring public confidence and enabling residents to go about their daily activities without fear.
He particularly praised the proactive approach of the troops, noting that their presence ensured peaceful Christmas and New Year celebrations across Ikwo and neighbouring areas.
The council chairman further reaffirmed the readiness of the local government to continue working closely with the military and other security agencies through community engagement, intelligence sharing, and collaborative policing, aimed at dismantling criminal networks.
Similarly, the Traditional Ruler of Amagikwo, His Royal Majesty Eze Dominic Ibor, commended the armed forces for restoring calm and stability, stressing that traditional institutions remain critical partners in sustaining long-term security.
The monarch assured that community leaders would continue to mobilise residents to provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies in order to prevent emerging threats.
Also speaking, the Women Leader of Ikwo Community, Mrs. Ngozi Margaret Igwe, said the military’s presence has helped instil discipline among youths, leading to a noticeable decline in cultism, robbery, and other forms of crime.
In the same vein, the Youth Leader, Dr. Onyechi Nwankwo, acknowledged the positive impact of the security operations and pledged the youths’ continued support in safeguarding lives and property within the area.
Providing insights into the operation, the Commanding Officer, 24 Support Engineer Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Ikenna Chielo, highlighted the unit’s non-kinetic strategies, including community dialogue, conflict resolution, medical outreach programmes, humanitarian support, and civil-military cooperation.
He noted that Operation UDOKA has recorded significant successes, including the disruption of violent groups, destruction of multiple illegal camps and facilities, and the rescue of abducted victims. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, to restoring and sustaining peace across Nigeria.
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