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ANAMBRA, Nigeria - A Nigerian-born lawyer based in the U.S., Chidi Amamgbo, has urged the federal government to eliminate security escorts for politicians and VIPs.
Amamgbo, who is a candidate for the Labour Party for the vacant Anambra South senatorial seat, remarked, “It is essential for all prominent figures, including governors, senators, House of Representatives members, and other key public office holders, to be stripped of police protection.
This change would prompt stakeholders to demonstrate commitment to internal security by reforming the system since they would no longer have access to police escorts.”
He spoke during a recent interaction with journalists in Awka on Sunday.
He believes that this initiative would enable the government to formulate effective strategies to address insecurity and restore safety to the nation. “We must either rise together or fall together.
We can either provide security for everyone or allow some to have their own mini-armies while the rest suffer,” he stated.
He highlighted that the current security crisis demands a law prohibiting the assignment of security personnel to affluent individuals.
Additionally, he advocated for an increase in security funds allocated to governors, especially in regions heavily afflicted by insecurity, where residents live in fear and struggle to conduct their businesses or enjoy peace. “Security funds designated for governors should not be viewed as discretionary funds.
A committee consisting of responsible citizens, who are experts in various fields, ought to be set up to manage the resources, ensure proper usage, and uphold accountability,” he emphasized.
He noted that Anambra South is severely impacted by insecurity issues such as kidnappings, cult activities, and enforced lockdowns. For many years, particularly in areas like Ihiala, Nnewi South, and Orumba South, these regions have been under attack by non-state actors.
“Our once-thriving communities have transformed into battlegrounds of violence and bloodshed. Our predominantly trading, industrial, farming, and professional communities now live in continuous anxiety, unable to conduct their daily businesses,” Amamgbo remarked.
He added that this unfortunate situation has led to business destruction, economic decline, and the displacement of families from their homes.
He contended that the security challenges have disrupted law and order, with law enforcement agencies overwhelmed and beyond their capacity.
Consequently, he called on the state government to intensify efforts to eradicate criminal activities in Anambra South.
