Seven thousand able bodied young men and women were on Friday 9th January inaugurated as members of the Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation by Governor Hope Uzodimma, another bold step taken to enhance security in the State.
The inauguration is part of efforts by the Governor Uzodimma-led administration to completely eradicate crime and criminality in all communities of Imo State, and underscore a renewed commitment to peace and stability.
The event, held at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri, marked a significant step in the administration’s strategy to combat insecurity and foster a safe environment for residents.
“As a state, we have witnessed a transformation,” the Governor remarked, reflecting on the recent festive season’s peace. “This past Christmas, our communities celebrated without incidents of molestation, a testament to the return of calm and order.”
Governor Uzodimma emphasised that the establishment of the Vigilance Services Organization, backed by the Imo State Security Organisation Amendment Law No. 3 of 2025, is not only essential for local security but also a proactive measure to protect the state’s developmental gains. “We must work every day to keep the peace we have earned,” he stated.
Governor Uzodimma addressed traditional rulers directly, affirming their crucial role in community safety. “You are the fathers of your communities. You know your children, and it is upon you to expose criminality,” he urged, calling for collaboration between the Vigilance Organisation and local leaders.
The newly trained members of the Vigilance Services Organization will serve as the “eyes and ears” within the communities, equipped with essential skills for intelligence gathering.They are here to nip insecurity in the bud,” Governor Uzodimma noted, reinforcing that peace is a continuous effort rather than a destination.
In a strong message to potential disruptors, the Governor asserted: “We have worked too hard to build this new Imo. Any attempt to incite violence will not be tolerated. The era of constance fear is gone and now behind us.”
He therefore, called on the citizens to support the newly inaugurated officers, emphasising cooperation as vital for maintaining public safety. “When the right hand washes the left and the left washes the right, both hands become clean,” he explained, urging community engagement in the fight against insecurity.
The Governor maintained that the inauguration serves as a clear signal to investors and visitors that Imo State is focused on maintaining a safe climate for growth and development. “Imo is open, Imo is safe,” he insisted and encouraged all to find opportunities within the state.
Governor Uzodimma commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for endorsing community policing and the establishment of local security initiatives, emphasising that this approach allows communities to take ownership of their security, which is vital for enhancing national security.
He expressed gratitude for Tinubu’s support, highlighting the importance of empowering local vigilance groups and fostering collaboration between them and traditional rulers to maintain peace and safety in Imo State, describing the initiative as a cornerstone for ensuring sustained security and stability for the community, “ultimately contributing to a safer Nigeria.”
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, said the launch of the Imo State Security Organization (ISSO) is a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and security.
He noted that the initiative represents a bold, strategic, and visionary step toward addressing security challenges and ensuring a peaceful future for all residents of the state.
According to him, the establishment of the Imo State Security Organisation signals the beginning of a new era of peace, safety, and prosperity, pointing out that the outfit was created in response to growing concerns over crime and insecurity in various communities.
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