By Austin Ogwuda
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State, today, Monday, launched Anambra Special Anti-Touting Squad at Upper Iweka, Onitsha, the commercial city warning that he has declared a full- blown war against the activities of ‘agberos’ (touts) who harass traders, visitors and passersby.
The governor lamented that the hydra-headed problem of touting instilled fears and was giving the State a bad name especially the notorious activities of these brigands at the popular Upper Iweka axis in Onitsha.
According to him, “When we assumed office, eight local governments were taken over. Thanks to the combined efforts of our security agencies and the vigilante service, with the support of those local government areas, the area has been liberated and normalcy restored”.
He stated that the launch of the squad was in fulfilment promise he made to the people resident in Onitsha North, Onitsha South, Ogbaru, Oyi, and Idemili at ensuring that lawlessness and brigandage perpetrated by these touts came to an end.
Said he, “We have told the youths to come out of their hideouts and the bush. We shall help to rehabilitate and integrate them into society to be useful to their families, communities, states, and nations.
Governor Soludo further said phone numbers shall be made available to ndi Anambra to inform the government of any touting activities they notice in the area, warning all market chairmen that any market where touts are still operating shall be disbanded and such chairmen shall be removed from office.
The inaugurated Special Anti-touting squad, according to the governor, will strictly adhere to laid down standards and the code of conduct guiding their operation and collaborate with the Nigerian Armed Forces who have the primary responsibility to keep the State safe.
In attendance during the launching were the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Aghamba, President General Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna, some personnel from the Armed Forces among others.
