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The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP), Enugu State Chapter, has lauded Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his significant strides in enhancing security and peace-building across the state since assuming office on May 29, 2023. In a joint press release signed by Chief Innocent Ezeoha (State Coordinator), Dr. Afam Ani (Chairman), and Barr. Ken Ikeh (Secretary), the coalition emphasized the administration’s visionary approach to tackling security challenges and fostering a safer Enugu State.

“As a coalition committed to good governance and democratic accountability, we recognize that a secure and peaceful environment is the bedrock of sustainable development, social harmony, and economic growth,” the CRPP stated. “In this context, we applaud the Mbah administration for its strategic initiatives aimed at creating a safer Enugu State.”

One of the administration’s notable actions was the decisive abolition of the illegal sit-at-home orders, which had previously disrupted economic and social activities across the Southeast. Governor Mbah announced the end of this practice on June 3, 2023, leading to the revitalization of daily economic activities and restoring confidence among the business community and citizens alike.

The establishment of the Distress Response Squad (DRS) in July 2023 marked another milestone. This rapid emergency response unit is equipped with over 100 surveillance-enabled patrol vehicles, each outfitted with high-tech cameras for facial and license plate recognition. The integration of a toll-free emergency response number has significantly improved response times and public safety coordination.

Further demonstrating an innovative embrace of technology in crime prevention, the administration launched the Safe City Project. Thousands of AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed across critical points in the state and linked to a centralized Command and Control Centre. This project has enhanced real-time surveillance and intelligence-sharing among security agencies, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.

The successful activation of the Enugu State Security Trust Fund, which has already attracted more than ₦3 billion in donations from private individuals and corporate organizations, stands as a laudable model for public-private collaboration in strengthening internal security. These funds are being used to bolster the capabilities of security agencies and sustain operations across the state.

At the grassroots level, the Mbah administration has empowered Neighbourhood Watch groups and Forest Guards by providing them with tools, training, and incentives to enhance community policing and intelligence gathering. This localized approach has improved security presence and responsiveness in rural and suburban communities.

The CRPP also commended the administration’s partnership with federal security agencies, including the Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Army, which led to the establishment of a naval base at Ogurugu in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area and plans for new Army barracks in Isi-Uzo. These collaborations are crucial to securing border areas and deterring trans-boundary threats.

Another high-impact intervention is the administration’s commitment to integrating digital technologies into security management. The digitization of emergency coordination and surveillance systems not only modernizes public safety mechanisms but also positions Enugu State as a front-runner in smart governance.

While acknowledging these remarkable achievements, the CRPP urged the Federal Government to lend greater support to the state’s security efforts. The magnitude of these reforms requires sustained funding, advanced technical assistance, and robust federal-state collaboration.

Specifically, the CRPP recommends increased federal financial allocations to support the continued rollout of security infrastructure and personnel training; stronger federal border patrols and military presence, especially in boundary communities facing trans-state security threats; technical support from national cybersecurity and ICT agencies to bolster the operational efficiency of the Safe City and DRS systems; and reliable power and internet connectivity across all security installations, especially in rural areas, to optimize the functionality of surveillance systems and command infrastructure.

In conclusion, the CRPP reiterated its appreciation of Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership in repositioning Enugu State as one of the most secure and forward-looking states in Nigeria. “These deliberate and well-structured reforms reflect a deep understanding of the relationship between peace, economic prosperity, and responsible governance,” the coalition stated. “We reaffirm our commitment to monitoring and highlighting sectoral progress across the state, and to offering objective feedback and patriotic counsel in support of good governance and the collective aspiration for a peaceful and prosperous Enugu State.”

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