Call Police or Me: Gov Otti's Wake-Up Call on Security in Abia State

Call Police or Me: Gov Otti's Wake-Up Call on Security in Abia State

In a stirring address that resonated deeply with Abia residents, Governor Alex Otti delivered a powerful message on vigilance and collective safety during Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations at the Government House in Umuahia. "If you see something, say something. Call the Nigerian Police, the DSS, the Army—just call the security agencies or call me. We don’t sleep. And the reason we don’t sleep is so that you can sleep," he declared.

  This isn't just rhetoric; it's a governor rolling up his sleeves to shield his people from harm.

Reasons Behind His Resolute Words

Governor Otti's statement stems from a genuine recognition of Abia's evolving security landscape. Over the past 28 months, the state has grappled with sporadic threats like kidnappings and communal clashes, common in Nigeria's southeastern corridor. By urging direct reporting—bypassing bureaucratic red tape—he addresses delays in intelligence gathering that often allow dangers to fester. It's a proactive stance, born from his administration's zero-tolerance policy on crime, where swift action has already dismantled several criminal networks. Otti's words underscore a belief that security is a shared duty; residents' tips can prevent tragedies before they unfold, fostering a safer environment amid national economic strains that sometimes exacerbate unrest.

The Positive Ripple Effect on Abia’s People

Otti's approach is already yielding tangible benefits. Residents feel empowered, not sidelined—knowing their governor's phone line is open breaks down the traditional wall between leaders and the led. This has boosted community trust, leading to increased tips that have thwarted potential attacks and recovered stolen goods. For families in Umuahia and Aba, it means nights of actual rest, not fear. Economically, a secure Abia attracts investors, spurring job creation and infrastructure booms like the ongoing road rehabilitations. It's leadership that humanizes governance, turning abstract promises into lived security.

Heightened Concern for Security and Raising Awareness

The depth of Otti's concern is evident in his unyielding focus on awareness campaigns. He's not just talking; his administration has rolled out town halls, radio jingles, and school programs to educate on spotting threats—from unusual gatherings to online radicalization. This multi-layered strategy extends security beyond patrols to everyday vigilance, ensuring even remote villages in Abia are looped in. By personalizing the call—"call me"—Otti elevates awareness from passive to participatory, addressing the full spectrum of risks in a state once plagued by invisibility in national security narratives.

Crediting His Tireless Hard Work

Kudos to Governor Otti for his round-the-clock dedication. Since taking office, he's invested billions in equipping security outfits, training personnel, and integrating tech like CCTV in hotspots. His "we don’t sleep" mantra mirrors his own grind—frequent field visits, late-night strategy sessions, and personal oversight of operations. This isn't armchair governance; it's boots-on-the-ground commitment that's transformed Abia from a cautionary tale to a model of progress.

WHAT NEXT

Governor Otti's clarion call is a beacon of hope in turbulent times. By blending empathy with action, he's not only securing Abia but inspiring a nation weary of empty vows. As residents heed his advice, the state edges closer to unbreakable peace. In Otti's Abia, safety isn't a luxury—it's a promise kept. Let's all play our part; after all, a vigilant community sleeps soundly.

News source; Daily post ng, Nigerian world.com.