By Lucy Ogalue
The Nsokpo Dynamic Association has appealed to Imo Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma to urgently address insecurity and deteriorating roads affecting the community.
This is contained in a statement released by the association and jointly signed by its President, Mark Onyejiaka and Secretary-General, Chukwudi Ohiri on Monday in Abuja.
The association, comprising young professionals from Nsokpo Community in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo made the appeal on the challenges of insecurity and other problems affecting the community.
It said the community had experienced repeated kidnappings and armed attacks in recent months, creating fear among residents.
According to the association, suspected herdsmen and criminal elements operating from surrounding bushlands had been blamed for the attacks.
It said farmers were afraid to access their farmlands, while traders were closing their businesses before dusk due to security concerns.
The association called for sustained security patrols during the day and night to deter further attacks in the community.
It also urged security agencies to conduct coordinated operations around the Nwaogwugwu land and bush axis between Ogbaku and Umunoha.
The group called for security operations in bushes bordering Nsokpo, saying local efforts were no longer sufficient to contain the situation.
It also appealed for support for community policing, including resources for local vigilance groups working alongside formal security agencies.
The association said Nsokpo’s location on the gateway to Owerri made its security strategically important to the state.
It also raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of two major roads connecting the community’s four villages to neighbouring communities and markets.
The roads are the Nsokpo–Ifakala to Nwaorieubi road and the Nsokpo–Lawa–Ohi road.
The association said the roads had deteriorated, making movement difficult, costly and dangerous, particularly during the rainy season.
It said the poor roads were slowing the movement of farm produce, increasing transportation costs and limiting access to commercial activities.
The association appealed for reconstruction of both roads to restore safe and reliable access to the community and neighbouring areas.
It also requested streetlights at dark and high-risk sections to improve security and safety at night.
“We are requesting basic security measures for the community and we are confidence in the governor’s leadership.
The association said timely government intervention would ease residents’ daily challenges and demonstrate commitment to responsive governance.
It said its appeals had been copied to relevant state security and government officials, including the Commissioner of Police and Commissioner for Works.(NAN)