*Military assures WAEC candidates of safety

The Police Command in Anambra State on Thursday said it has intensified patrols and took over the strategic junctions in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ihiala, Oraifite and other parts of the state to ensure there’s no breakdown of law and during the “Biafra Day Celebration”.

Recall that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had in a statement declared Friday, May 30, a sit-at-home day, to remember Biafra heroes, who died during the civil war.

A statement by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO),SP Tochukwu Ikenga said that the security measures were reached following a meeting by the Police-led Joint Security Force comprising the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), other Security agencies as well as the Army and Navy.

The statement read in part: “Following the outcome of a closed-door meeting of the Anambra Security Service Commanders ahead of an illegal sit-at-home on 30th May 2025, by some criminal elements, the Commissioner of Police CP Ikioye Orutugu has noted the increased motivation of the Police and Other Security Agencies stemming from the cooperation and support received from Ndi Anambra in joining voices to condemn any act that threatens our National peace.

“This collective effort has further strengthened the resolve of the security agencies to tackle threats to peace and security in the State, fostering a safer environment through Community-Police collaboration.

“This demonstrates the commitment of the Security Agencies to maintaining security and order as their heightened presence aims to deter criminal activities, reassure the public, and provide a safe environment for citizens and visitors alike.’

The Command urged residents to contact control room numbers, 07039194332 or PPRO 08039334002 for a prompt response.

In the event of requesting any security services/assistance and also call the various Area Commanders or DPOs in their areas of concern.

*Military assurances of safety

Meanwhile, the Nigerian military has assured students writing the West African Examination Council (WAEC) examinations of their safety across Anambra State and the entire South- East zone.

Colonel Adamu Kabiru Mohammed, Sector Commander, Sector 5, Operation Udo Ka, gave the assurances while briefing the Defence Media Team.

He said that the examinations scheduled to take place across Anambra State and the broader South-East zone, where IPOB’s influence has previously disrupted public life, would hold as scheduled

Speaking to newsmen in  its base in Orsumoghu, Ihiala Local Government Area, a town once considered a stronghold of IPOB and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (RSN), Col. Mohammad highlighted the joint efforts of various security agencies to safeguard examination centers during the IPOB-declared sit-at-home scheduled for May 29 and 30.

“All necessary arrangements have been made to ensure that students can sit for their WAEC exams without fear or disruption,” he said. 

“We have intensified patrols around schools and potential hotspots to prevent any form of threat or violence,” he added.

The sit-at-home order was declared by IPOB to honour what the group calls its “fallen heroes.” 

The announcement has raised concerns among residents, particularly parents and students preparing for the crucial school-leaving examinations.

Colonel Mohammad, however, downplayed the group’s capacity to enforce the order, describing IPOB’s tactics as fear-driven and rooted in misinformation.

“They typically stage attacks in remote areas, kill one or two individuals, and then circulate the footage online to stir panic,” he explained. 

“We are committed to stopping this cycle of fear. Our troops are fully deployed and ready to secure every exam center,” he said.

He also revealed that military forces, in collaboration with local vigilantes and other security outfits, have cleared IPOB and ESN elements from their base in Orsumoghu — a development he said marks a turning point in the region’s security.

“This area was once a hub for IPOB and ESN activity.

“But our persistent operations have successfully reclaimed Orsumoghu and surrounding communities. Though they’ve tried to return, they’ve been met with strong resistance and defeat,” he said.

The military’s intensified presence has helped restore calm, and authorities continue to encourage local residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.