Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has officially inaugurated the Imo Vigilante Organization, marking a strategic move by the State Government to strengthen community-based security and enhance public safety across Imo State.
The event which held at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri, brought together government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders. According to the Governor, the establishment of the vigilante organization is part of ongoing efforts to complement formal security structures and support grassroots cooperation in crime prevention.
The Governor also noted that creating a safe and stable environment remains essential for fostering development and sustaining economic activities in the State. He emphasized that the vigilante group will operate under clear regulations and in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, ensuring professionalism and respect for human rights.
The Imo Vigilante Organization is expected to commence operations immediately, with its members drawn from various communities across the state to work closely with traditional institutions, youth groups, and security formations.
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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.
The Commissioner commended Governor Uzodimma for his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to prioritizing the security and wellbeing of Imo people. “Security remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth,” Osakwe emphasized.
He expressed optimism that the new security organisation would strengthen collaboration between conventional security agencies and local communities, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response to security threats.
The Commissioner therefore called on residents to cooperate with the Imo State Security Organisation and actively participate in community safety initiatives, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.
The high points of the event was the unavailing of security provided by the State government for the 27 Local Governments of the State, as well as awards to Best Legal Lecturer, Best Parade Commander, Best in Drills, Best Guard Commander, Best LGA Chairman on Mobilization Skills, Best in Academics and Best Behaved Recruit.
Present at the event were; the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, Senators representing Imo West and North – Senators Osita Izunaso and Patrick Ndubueze, members of the House of Representatives, members of the State House of Assembly, the Secretary to Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council and other government appointees, Local Government Council Chairmen, Councillors, Heads of Security Agencies and Para-military, traditional rulers among others.