South East Governors Meet, Review Security Situation

CHUKA UBAH

The Governors of the five South East states met in Enugu on Sunday 28th July, 2019, and reviewed the security situation in the zone and equally discussed issues relating to economic development.

In attendance were the host, the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State/Chairman of the Forum, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State and Deputy Governors of Anambra and Imo States, Dr. Nkem Okeke and Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona.

At the end of the meeting, a communiqué was issued by the South East Governors. Major highlights of the communique included:

*Appeal to the Federal Government to consider, among other numerous requests, the reconstruction of the runway of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to enhance the safety of air travellers.

*Commendation of Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi “for his numerous interventions in addressing recent concerns raised by FAAN” in ensuring that the Enugu international airport is functional.

*Reiterated its earlier stance that “there is no land in South East for RUGA settlement programme”.

*Called on the Federal Government to take more meaningful action on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Owerri-Onitsha Expressway, Okigwe-Owerri Expressway and Owerri-Umuahia Expressway.

*Commended the Federal Government for the steady progress on the 2nd Niger Bridge project.

*Resolved to set up a Security Committee and a Centre for South East Integrated Security Monitoring/Intelligence Gathering, to be centrally located in Enugu, in response to the emerging security challenges in the zone. The Forum pointed out that the security committee will also address the safety of fuel pipeline route to Enugu Depot to ensure resumption of pumping of Petroleum Products in Enugu Depot in the shortest possible time.

*Agreed to key into the FG’s Community Policing programme, adding that Forest Guards would be established in each state and roads cleared up to 50 meters into the bush to have a clear view of roads ahead.