Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra has commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for restoring peace and security in parts of the state.

Mr Soludo gave the commendation when he received visiting Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa and his team members in Awka on Saturday.

The governor confirmed that the armed forces played a crucial role in the prevailing peace in Anambra.

Mr Soludo noted that the military had liberated eight local government areas in Anambra under the siege of criminals.

At a closed-door meeting with the visitors, the governor requested the deployment of military men and materials to eliminate the safe havens where criminals hid in the state.

“When we declared war on the criminals, they couldn’t withstand the force,’’ he noted.

Mr Soludo reiterated the call by his administration to those still hibernating in forests to lay down their arms, embrace amnesty and rehabilitation, and abandon violence.

“I must thank the army, the navy, the air force, the police, other security agencies and the local vigilance group for the significant progress achieved in restoring peace and security to Anambra,’’ Mr Soludo said.

Earlier, Mr Musa acknowledged improved security in Anambra and assured Mr Soludo of the military’s continued commitment to securing the state.

He said he and his team visited to strengthen the partnership between Anambra and the Nigerian armed forces to ensure peace and sustainable development.

Top-ranking military personnel accompanied Mr Musa on the visit. 

(NAN)