Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has extended an olive branch to armed youth groups hiding in the state’s forests, offering them a path to rehabilitation if they choose to surrender. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to reintegrating those willing to abandon criminal activities and embrace a productive life.
Speaking during an interview on Channels TV, Soludo stressed that criminality does not align with the values of the Anambra people. "Our reform program is moving forward according to schedule. We are not the type of people who hide in the bushes, who want to get rich quick, or who are criminals who no longer appreciate hard work," he stated.
The governor downplayed the number of youths involved in crime, insisting that only a small fraction engage in unlawful activities. "The 0.01% of criminals who are out there in the bush will occasionally sneak out of the bushes and cause one mayhem or the other," he noted. "That 0.01% can never define the rest of the 99.99% of Anambra youths."
He further praised the majority of young people in the state, describing them as hardworking and determined. "A large percentage of our youth are hardworking, they are honest people, and they want to take their destiny in their own hands," Soludo remarked. He acknowledged their aspirations and stressed the need for proper support to help them build a better future.
The governor concluded his address with a direct message to those still engaged in armed activities: "If you are in the bush and carrying guns, come out and we will help you get back on your feet."
Soludo’s appeal comes at a time of heightened security concerns in Anambra, particularly after a series of violent attacks targeting political figures. The most shocking case was the abduction and murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a lawmaker representing Onitsha North. His remains were discovered on the Second Niger Bridge weeks after he was kidnapped, a crime that underscored the ongoing security challenges in the state.
The state government has since intensified efforts to combat crime, with security agencies working tirelessly to restore peace. Soludo's call for rehabilitation reflects a dual approach—offering amnesty to those willing to change while cracking down on those who persist in criminality. Whether this initiative will yield the desired results remains to be seen, but it marks another step in addressing the insecurity affecting Anambra and its residents.
Click on the link below and watch the video starting from 33:35 minutes mark