The leadership of Agunechemba, Anambra State’s newly established security outfit, has directed all vigilante groups previously operating under the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) to immediately cease operations across the state.
The directive was announced on Friday in Awka by Ken Emeakayi, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Community Security, during a meeting with private security stakeholders.
Emeakayi stated unequivocally that the AVG has been dissolved following the repeal of the law that created it.
He warned that any individual or group continuing to operate under the defunct structure would face arrest and prosecution.
According to Emeakayi, the meeting was convened to strengthen collaboration among security actors in Anambra State and to ensure that private security firms align their operations with the state’s Homeland Security framework.
He disclosed that formal notices would soon be sent to local government chairpersons instructing them not to recognize or engage any vigilante group operating under the AVG name.
He further emphasized that Agunechemba has now been established in all 21 local government areas of the state, and the use of the AVG structure is strictly prohibited.
Emeakayi directed all private security companies operating in the state to register with Agunechemba as a condition for lawful operation.
He also urged them to ensure compliance with federal regulatory requirements.
Citing Section 7 of the Anambra Homeland Security Law, 2025, he noted that all private security organizations must register with the State Government after fulfilling stipulated regulatory conditions.
To facilitate compliance, Emeakayi announced the constitution of a joint screening committee comprising representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The committee will vet private security operators seeking registration with both Agunechemba and the Police.
He explained that the screening process would commence shortly, requiring companies to present evidence of registration and produce all employees for comprehensive vetting.
Emeakayi stressed the importance of accountability within private security firms, stating that every employee must appear before the screening panel.
He added that firms must obtain prior approval before transferring official equipment to any replaced staff member when an employee exits.
He cautioned operators against employing individuals involved in cultism, drug abuse, or other criminal activities, warning that violations would attract criminal sanctions.
Also addressing stakeholders, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, represented by Deputy Superintendent of Police Felix Emmanuel of the CP Monitoring Team, advised private security firms to conduct thorough background checks before recruitment and to ensure adequate welfare for their personnel.
He warned against arming poorly remunerated guards, noting that inadequate compensation could increase the risk of weapon misuse.
Orutugu directed that all armed personnel employed by private security firms must be registered with both Agunechemba and the Police.
He further instructed operators to keep Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) informed of their activities to ensure proper documentation and oversight.
He also mandated that firms disclose the sources of their operational equipment and confirm that all materials are lawfully acquired.
Clarifying the legal framework, the Commissioner stated that under Anambra State law, only Agunechemba is authorized to bear firearms in response to the state’s peculiar security challenges.
Any private security firm seeking to carry arms must register with and operate under Agunechemba, in strict compliance with state regulations governing uniforms and operational standards.
He reiterated that the role of private security personnel is limited to static assignments, such as guarding premises and managing crowd control, and does not extend to escort services.
In their remarks, representatives of the private security community commended Agunechemba for its efforts in improving security across the state. They cited noticeable reductions in crime rates in Obosi and other urban centers since the outfit’s establishment.
According to them, incidents of murder, kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes have significantly declined compared to previous periods.
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