The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has pledged to collaborate with the Anambra State Government to combat criminal elements terrorizing the state’s forests. This declaration follows a spate of violent incidents, including the recent abduction of a lawmaker, the kidnapping of an Anglican clergy, and the killing of a Catholic priest.
In a statement issued Thursday in Abuja, Destiny Jonas, Commander of the NFSS, Anambra State Command, emphasized the need for a joint effort to reclaim the state’s forests, which have become hideouts for kidnappers and other criminal elements.
Jonas referenced the Dec. 30 massacre in Chigbonu village, Ihiala, where eight people were brutally killed by gunmen, as evidence of the urgent need for action. “Our operations are focused in forests and bushes. We know the terrain well and can provide vital intelligence to dismantle criminal camps,” Jonas said.
The NFSS commander expressed the service’s readiness to support the state’s “Operation Udo Ga Di Na Anambra Security Initiative,” aimed at eradicating criminal activities from Anambra’s hinterlands. However, he underscored the importance of official recognition and collaboration with government agencies to ensure the operation’s success.
Jonas voiced concern over the impact of insecurity on Anambra’s economy, noting that investors are fleeing to safer states. Despite NFSS efforts to secure key remote areas during the festive season, he acknowledged that more needs to be done to rid the forests of criminal elements.
Highlighting the service’s plans for January 2025, Jonas revealed that the NFSS has identified flashpoints across the state and is prepared to launch operations against criminal camps, pending government authorization. He also praised the NFSS’s role in rescuing kidnapped victims during the Yuletide season.
Jonas commended Dr. John Metchie, Deputy Commander-General of NFSS in charge of intelligence, for his dedication to Anambra’s security and lauded the Commander-General, Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, for fostering unity within the service.
“The NFSS is committed to ensuring that Anambra forests are free from deforestation, kidnappings, and all forms of criminal activities,” Jonas concluded, urging state authorities to expedite discussions to formalize the partnership.
