Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has called on security agencies to close ranks and tackle insecurity in the state, saying that his administration will not rest on it ors to ensuring safety of lives and property of residents in the state.
Governor Emmanuel made the call, Wednesday, while exchanging views with the GOC, 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Major Gen. Olubunmi Irefin, who called at Government House , Uyo , as part of his familiarisation tour of Army formations within his Command .
The Governor who remarked that security of lives and property in the state is top priority of his administration, pointed out that development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.
…our first part of duty, our first line of responsibility is to ensure the security of lives and property, so whatsoever we need to do in this regard to collaborate and make sure that people sleep well will be highly welcomed, we have to do everything possible to assist you because once the environment is calm and peaceful development will thrive at an exceptional speed”, he noted .
The Governor expressed appreciation to Major General Irefin for acknowleding the state government intiative in the Housing and Water project at 2 Division Ibagwa Barracks, assuring that commissioning of the projects will take place before the end of the year.
Governor Emmanuel used the occasion to appeal to the Federal Government to assist the state through the Joint Task Force, JTF, in tackling security challenges in some Local Government Areas in the State.
“I have just one request, I know JTF is not directly under you but anything you can do to give us support under the Joint Task Force, we will really appreciate .
“We have some security challenges in about three Local Government Areas in the state and we really need your support in those areas”, he solicited.
Earlier, Major General Olubunmi Irefin said his visit to the state House was part of his familiarisation tour of formations under his command and particularly commended Governor Emmanuel for the numerous developmental strides witnessed in the state, adding that the Governor has done exceedingly well in the area of security in the state.
Major Irefin, also applauded the state government for the rehabilitation of residential Quarters at the Ibagwa Barracks and solicited assistance in the provision of electricity in the Barracks .
He thanked the state administration for the hospitality extended to his delegation during their visit to the state.
