By Okechukwu Onuegbu
Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), Thursday, intensified efforts with other stakeholders to eliminate violence crimes in the Anambra capital city.
The capital city like most parts of Nigeria had been witnessing cult related killings and violence in a recent time which has led to death of many.
To stem the tide, the MD/CEO, ACTDA, Hon. Osita Ọnuko after a closed door meeting with the member representing Awka South 1 State Constituency, Hon. Henry Mbachu; the Transition Committee Chairman, Awka South Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. ThankGod Anagor; and the law enforcement agents; expressed hope for a new turn around in Awka.
Ọnuko, who expressed dissatisfaction over the ugly incidents which according to him, had impacted negatively on the State economy, including scaring away businesses and investors, said they have brainstormed and formed security strategies with the government, community and religious leaders, the youth and others to nip it to the bud.
"We are offering those who are engaging in this violence crimes opportunities to repent and allow peace to reign for Awka to remain the best, glorious and industrious city it used to be. There is no gain in crimes. We are appealing to the youth and everyone to shun crimes and embrace peace. Let's support the efforts of our dear governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo to make Anambra a liveable and prosperous State," he added.
Also speaking, the member representing Awka South 1, Hon. Henry Mbachu, also appealed to the media, National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Church and social interest groups to join the move by devicing programmes and actions geared towards of sensitising members and other populace.
"We need full collaboration of all to achieve desired results because some of those who engage in crimes do not actually have knowledge of what they are doing. We are passionately working to ensure that our people, investors and residents have total peace. Crime is crime and those hiding under cultism to commit crime should face consequences of their actions," Mbachu further maintained.
To the Transition Committee Chairman of Awka South, Hon. ThankGod Anagor, the stakeholders would have no rest until they achieve positive results having activated various strategies.
"This is not a case of unknown gunmen because those perpetuating these crimes are known. We cannot rest until our strategies and efforts yield positive results. Awka will surely be calm," he disclosed.