Operation Udoka: Community Leaders hail military for enhanced Security
By Matthew Denis
The Community leaders in the Southeast region of Nigeria have eulogized the military's operation Udoka for enhancing security and peace among the people.
Recall that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has reassured Nigerians of military commitment towards restoring and sustaining peace and security across the four walls of this country. The operation Udoka has recorded a limestone achievements by eliminating secessionist activities of Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB) its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN) among other miscreants activities in Southeastern states and Cross Rivers thereby destroying a total of 45 camps, 51 bunkering sites and freed 49 hostages in recent times.
The leaders led by the Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi state, Barr. Sunday Nwankwo while hosting Defence Correspondents on a tour said the area has experienced a positive impact from the military's presence and efforts.
He commended the troops for their proactive engagements that ensured peaceful Christmas and New year celebrations.
The Chairman reaffirmed that they will continue cooperate with military and other security agencies in the local government in intelligence-driven policing, community engagement in providing vital information that will continue collapse the deadly activities of evildoers.
On his part, the traditional ruler of Amagikwo, His Royal Majesty Eze Sir Dominic commended the military for restoring peace and stability in the region.
The Monarch noted that they will continue to collaborate with security agencies in gathering information from their communities to help identify and neutralize threats.
The traditional rulers stressed that they will mobilize their communities to support military operations and provide necessary assistance when needed.
The women leader of Ikwo community, Mrs. Igwe Ngozi Margaret applauded the military by confessing that their presence has bring back discipline among the youths.
She explained that their youths have shun cultism activities, robbery and other criminal act since the existence of soldiers in their communities.
The youth leader, Dr. Onyechi Nwankwo while acknowledging the effort of military operations reiterated their commitment in ensuring safety of lives and properties in the community.
The Commander of 24 Support Engineer Regiment, Lt. Col. Ikenna Chielo while highlighting their Non-kinetic operations said they have engaging with the communities in information sourcing, settling disputes, providing medical care and other humanitarian aid.
"We value and appreciate the support of the people. We, on our part, sometimes we have engagements with them. We carryout some outreaches,civil military cooperation activities, town hall engagements, medical outreach.
"During the Armed Forces Celebration, Remembrance Day we had a medical outreach just to boost the civil military cooperation. We also provide some assistance to schools, particularly primary and secondary schools. We participate in conflict resolution.