By Our Correspondent
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has strengthened community-level security with the inauguration of 7,000 operatives of the Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation, while also honouring the Chairman of Onuimo Local Government Area, Dr. Paul Emeka Obi, for his outstanding commitment to the state’s security initiative.
The inauguration ceremony, held at Heroes Square, Owerri, followed the enactment of the Imo State Security Organisation (Amendment) Law No. 3 of 2025, which provides the legal framework for grassroots-driven security operations across the 27 Local Government Areas of the state.
Governor Uzodimma said the initiative was part of deliberate efforts to consolidate peace and protect the state’s developmental gains. He noted that the relative calm experienced during the Christmas and New Year festivities was evidence that Imo State is gradually returning to stability.
According to the Governor, the vigilance operatives are expected to function as the eyes and ears of their communities by gathering timely intelligence and preventing crime at the local level. He urged traditional rulers and community leaders to take ownership of security in their domains and warned that any attempt to disrupt the prevailing peace would not be tolerated.
The Governor reassured residents and investors that Imo State remains safe, secure, and open for business.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, described the inauguration as a strategic milestone in the state’s security reforms and called on residents to support the vigilance structure, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.
A major highlight of the event was the recognition of the Onuimo Local Government boss, Dr. Paul Emeka Obi, who emerged as the best council chairman among the 27 local government areas.
He was honoured for his active and full participation in the state security training alongside other recruits, a move widely seen as leadership by example and a strong commitment to grassroots security.
