The Nigerian Army on Monday launched Exercise Golden Dawn in Anambra following rising security lapses in the state.
Commander, 302 Artillery Regiment Col. Abdulkarim Usman said the exercise slated for October 4 to December 23, 2021, would serve as a means to combat insecurity and foster inter-agency cooperation.
The operation was inaugurated at Igbariam, Anambra East Local Government Area by 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support).
Usman said it was necessary for the people of the area to cooperate for the success of the exercise.
“The operation is meant to practice command and staff of combat arms and services in planning and conduct of military operation other than war (MOOTW) to confront security challenges within their area of responsibility in conjunction with other security agencies.
“The threats range from secessionist agitations by the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“Others are banditry, kidnapping, cultist activities, land disputes clashes, communal clashes, chieftaincy issues clashes, assassinations and youths restiveness. To curb these countless security challenges, a robust posture is what the unit has always maintained,” he said.
President General of Igbariam Community Anthony Obueh described the military presence in the area as a ‘confidence booster’ towards guaranteeing peace and security in the community and the state at large.
Last week, Dr Chike Akunyilo, widower of former NAFDAC chief Prof Dora Akunyili, was murdered in Onitsha, Anambra State. On Sunday, the offices of two government agencies and home of a public official, Joe Igbokwe, in Anambra were burnt by men currently at large.
