The 82 Division, Nigerian Army, has assured traders in the Onitsha Main Market and traders in other economic centres in the region of security and safety.

The army made the pledge in a statement on Tuesday.

It said that traders and other law-abiding citizens would be protected with all necessary measures.

According to the army, security forces remain fully deployed, on alert, while intelligence-led kinetic operations are ongoing to dismantle the remnants of the Indigenous People of Biafra and ESN from their hideouts.

“The Headquarters, 82 Division, wishes to commend the courageous and patriotic traders of Onitsha Main Market for their patriotic decision to reopen their businesses after years of succumbing to empty threats of enemies of the nation.

“This bold step represents a collective stand for peace, security, and economic progress in Anambra State and the South-East region at large,” said the statement.

It noted that for years, “criminal elements masquerading as freedom fighters have been instilling fear and undermining the livelihoods of hard-working citizens”.

“Their action, which was designed to instil fear, cripple commerce, destabilise communities, and erode confidence in government institutions, has long been defused, but the courage of these patriotic traders has authenticated the giant strides by the security agencies.

“By rejecting intimidation and resuming business, they have demonstrated resilience and a firm commitment to peace and progress,” the army said.

Additionally, the army urged residents to continue their lawful activities without fear, to shun intimidation, and to embrace courage in the face of empty threats. The statement further said that the army was ready to defend the people against those bent on ruining the economic prosperity of the South-East region.

“All criminal elements are hereby warned to lay down their arms, renounce violence, and embrace peace. Unrepentant criminals will face the full weight of the law and the decisive force of the security agencies, as no hiding place will shield them from justice.

“The division reiterates its unwavering commitment to the protection of all citizens, the security of life and property, and the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty. We further call on the public to disregard false threats intended to undermine the peace support efforts of the security agencies,” it said.

The army assured that the division would continue to work closely with civil authorities, traditional institutions, and other security agencies to ensure lasting peace and security throughout Anambra.

(NAN)