Governor Alex Otti launched the Abia State Security Trust Fund on Thursday, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property.

Mr Otti said security should be treated as a shared responsibility by the government, businesses, and citizens.

“Insecurity cannot be tackled by arms and ammunition alone. There is a need for the use of lawful force and social investment to build safer environments and discourage crime,” he said.

He said that upon assuming office in May 2023, the government launched Operation Crush to reclaim territories from criminals and supported policing with vehicles and logistics.

The governor also stated that the Office of Homeland Security had since become more efficient, providing vital intelligence and acting independently when required.

Mr Otti said that through the government’s efforts, Abia now enjoyed peace and stability “due to the strategic planning and firm responses to external criminal threats”.

The governor pointed out that “security is expensive, but inaction costs more”, urging philanthropists and organisations to contribute generously to the fund. He said that the fund, backed by law, would support operational equipment, intelligence systems, and technology to detect and deter crime in Abia.

“We’re setting up a quick-response centre to improve coordination and public safety through real-time data,” Mr Otti said.

He promised transparency and accountability, assuring the people that every donation would be prudently applied.

“This is a continuous exercise. When we call, answer with generosity and duty,” he said.

In her speech, deputy labour minister Nkiruka Onyejeocha affirmed the federal government’s commitment to security.

Ms Onyejeocha restated that peace in Abia would positively influence national stability and urged citizens to support security agencies by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities in their communities.

She stated that security should not be left solely to the government and called for public collaboration with law enforcement agencies to enhance safety across all aspects of life.

In his address, Stanley Obiamarije, chairman of the ASSTF board of trustees, described the event as pivotal in Abia’s journey toward greater security.

Mr Obiamarije commended the governor for revitalising the trust fund through decisive leadership, political will, and actionable commitment. He gave assurance that the fund would operate as a public-private partnership, supporting security agencies with equipment and logistics.

He also promised that accountability and transparency would be applied in managing the funds, with all contributions documented.

According to him, the fund would be used for the acquisition of surveillance tools, communication devices, and other operational needs.

(NAN)