Retired Deputy Inspector General of Police from Anambra State, Chief Celestine Okoye, has claimed that his life is in danger from suspected cultists in his hometown, Awka.
According to Vanguard, the threats reportedly followed his refusal to help secure bail for their members currently in police custody.
Recent violence in Awka, attributed to rival cult groups, has resulted in several killings. Some members of these groups, who were arrested by the police, remain in detention.
Okoye has raised concerns about the escalating kidnapping crisis in Awka, particularly in the Dubai Estate area, which he has labeled as a high-risk zone.
He explained that the threats against him began after he declined to intervene in the cases of arrested cult members.
Okoye has expressed frustration over what he perceives as the complicity of some influential individuals in Awka who are allegedly supporting cultists and kidnappers, further aggravating the region’s insecurity.
Among the recent kidnapping incidents he cited was the abduction of a newly-married couple, with a ransom demand of N30 million.
The retired DIG criticised both the state government and security agencies for their perceived failure to address the growing insecurity in Awka.
He expressed disappointment that his planned meeting with Governor Chukwuma Soludo to discuss these issues was canceled at the last minute and has not been rescheduled.
Okoye also took issue with parents in the area, accusing them of neglecting their responsibilities and sometimes obstructing police investigations.
He provided an example of how families of cultists often bury their deceased members hastily without notifying the police, thus impeding investigations.
In contrast, Okoye noted that Nnewi has implemented a more organised local security system, including street cameras, which has helped improve their security situation.
In response, Anambra State Commissioner for Homeland Matters, Chief Chikodi Anarah, assured that the state is actively tackling insecurity. He highlighted ongoing 24-hour operations and arrests, emphasising the need for involvement from key figures in Awka.
He also noted that the Anambra State government has previously sought cooperation from Awka’s leadership to combat insecurity.