The Abia State Government has sounded the alarm over the rising wave of cult-related activities across the state, warning that it will no longer tolerate criminality in any form.
Governor Alex Otti, through the State Executive Council, has directed security agencies to go all out against cultists and other criminal elements threatening public peace.
Speaking to journalists after this week’s Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, described the trend as a grave threat to security, economic stability, and social cohesion.
“The Otti-led administration is determined to restore law and order. Cultism is not just a security issue; it’s an existential challenge. We are committed to using every lawful means to protect lives and property,” Kanu stated.
He stressed that while law-abiding residents will continue to enjoy full government protection, miscreants will face the full weight of the law.
Operation Crush Intensified, Community-Based Intelligence Boosted
The government’s response is anchored on a renewed security reform agenda, which includes the revamp of Operation Crush, enhanced community-based intelligence gathering, and closer collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups to root out cultism at the grassroots level.
“With this firm directive, Abia is declaring zero tolerance for criminality. The era of impunity is over,” Kanu added.
Health Reforms and New Recruitment Drive
In other announcements, the Commissioner revealed plans to begin the enrolment of local government workers into the Abia State Social Health Insurance Scheme (ABSHIS), which has already onboarded over 94,000 enrollees across various sectors.
The government has also commenced recruitment of qualified health professionals to meet the state’s growing healthcare demands. “This recruitment drive is part of Governor Otti’s broader agenda to improve healthcare delivery in the state, especially at the grassroots level,” Kanu said.
Outstanding Entitlements for Polytechnic Workers Paid
In a significant move to restore trust in the public service, the government has cleared the outstanding entitlements of 249 disengaged staff of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba.
The workers, dismissed between 2018 and 2022 under the previous administration, had been owed for years. Their payment marks another milestone in Governor Otti’s effort to address inherited liabilities and uphold workers’ rights.
“This is a demonstration of the government’s compassion and commitment to justice. We are rebuilding institutions and restoring hope for affected families,” Kanu concluded.
As Governor Otti’s administration continues to implement reforms across security, healthcare, and civil service systems, Abians are being assured of a government focused on accountability, equity, and inclusive development.
