Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has begun the development of a Counter terrorism Unit base in his house city, Nsit Ubium Local Government, following the reported incidents of violent crimes throughout the Southern area.
The transfer, in line with the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, Maj.-Gen. Koko Essien, rtd, throughout a Ministerial Press Briefing in Uyo on Friday, would forestall or readily deal with any type of insurgency that will emerge in the state.
While noting that the governor had already secured approval from the Nigerian Police Force to that impact, Essien dismissed the narrative that development of the Base was pointless, as there was no insurgency menace in Akwa Ibom.
He stated it was vital for the state to be on alert towards what he described as “emerging security threats.”
According to him, “The governor has secured the approval of the Force headquarters to construct a counter-terrorism unit base in Nsit Ubium, Akwa Ibom, to combat terrorism and violent crimes.
“Some folks ask, if there may be terrorism in Akwa Ibom, why CTU? There is one thing in safety we name rising threats. Initially, we thought terrorism was restricted to the North. We all know what has occurred in the South not too long ago; a few states have witnessed that, and we have now to be ready. That’s why the governor has determined that we have to put together for such emergencies.
“CTU is a specialised branch of the Nigeria Police created to combat terrorism, armed insurgency, and violent crime across the country. It will also check terrorist plots, protect critical infrastructure, and handle hostage situations.”
Essien additionally famous that the Centralised Security and Emergency Response Centre would quickly be commissioned.
He stated the centre will function a digital nerve that can coordinate safety operations, real-time surveillance, info sharing amongst safety companies, and emergency fireplace and ambulance service administration throughout the state.
On the proposed relocation of Uyo Correctional Centre, the Commissioner hinted that the state authorities has already acquired a big expanse of land at Nung Ukim Ikono for that objective however awaits the approval of the Federal Ministry of Interior.
