Abandoned in Desperation: Governor Soludo and the Kidnapping Crisis Embodied by Miss Francisca Chioma

 

Governor Soludo’s inaction and detachment in addressing the rampant kidnappings, exemplified by Miss Chioma's case, is a glaring testament to his incompetency in ensuring the security of his people.

Since the onset of Governor Soludo's tenure in Anambra State, Nigeria, in 2022, I have been closely observing the unfolding events, particularly the alarming increase in kidnapping crises. These incidents are not isolated but form a pattern that reflects poorly on the governance under Governor Soludo. His administration, which began amidst promises of hope and enhanced security, has dramatically faltered. Anambra State, under his leadership, has unfortunately become synonymous with rampant kidnappings and the continuous menace of the  group of thugs known as the ‘unknown gunmen’. This prevalent insecurity is not just a stain on his governance; it is a clear indication of his inability to effectively tackle and curtail these rampant crimes. The promises of a safer state have been eclipsed by a growing sense of fear and vulnerability among the citizens.

The harrowing ordeal of Miss Francisca Chioma, a student from Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, starkly exemplifies the crisis of leadership in Governor Soludo’s administration. Chioma's kidnapping on April 5, while she was on her way to a funeral in the state, sent shockwaves through the university community and beyond. It peeled back the veneer of normalcy to reveal the grim reality of Anambra's deteriorating security landscape. Chioma, known for her diligence in the Science Education Department, tragically became yet another victim in a series of kidnappings that have plagued the state. Her friends and family, desperate for any news of her, found their efforts to contact her fruitless, plunging them into a deep well of panic and despair. This incident is not just about Chioma’s personal tragedy; it is emblematic of the broader insecurity that has besieged the state.

Despite the gravity of this situation, the response from Governor Soludo’s office has been disappointingly absent. Ken Chukwurah, the Chief Security Officer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, confirmed the kidnapping and involvement of the Department of State Services (DSS). However, the lack of any statement, reassurance, or action from Governor Soludo himself speaks volumes about his detachment and inadequacy in handling such critical issues. The silence from the state’s highest office in the face of such a crisis is alarming and unacceptable. It reveals a troubling disconnect between the governor’s responsibilities and the urgent security needs of his constituents. The people of Anambra State, especially the youth whose futures are most at risk, deserve a leader who is not only vocal but proactive in ensuring their safety and security.

The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of N10 million, which through desperate negotiations by Chioma's acquaintances, was reduced to N2 million. This led to an agonizing situation where her fellow students and friends had to publicly solicit funds to secure her release. The call for help, poignantly shared by Collins C. on social media, was a cry for assistance that no student should ever have to make. It highlighted the dire straits Chioma's family and friends found themselves in, due to the state's failure to provide security.

The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, acknowledged the situation but requested more information for investigation. This response, although typical, further underscores the lack of proactive measures and swift action in addressing such critical incidents.

Governor Soludo's silence and inaction in the face of this crisis are nothing short of disgraceful. His failure to address the security challenges in Anambra State, especially the high incidence of kidnapping and the nefarious activities of unknown gunmen, reflects a colossal leadership failure. The safety of citizens should be the foremost priority of any government, and Governor Soludo has failed miserably in this regard.

Moreover, his administration's lack of communication and transparency in such situations adds to the growing mistrust among the citizens. The lack of a swift and reassuring response to Chioma's kidnapping is a stark reminder of this administration's disconnect from the realities and fears of its people.

As I reflect on the state of affairs in Anambra under Governor Soludo, I am compelled to question the direction in which Anambra State are headed. The consistent reports of insecurity and violence are not just statistics; they represent real lives, real families thrown into turmoil. Miss Francisca Chioma's case is a somber illustration of the many lives impacted by this failure of governance.

It is high time that Governor Soludo confronts these security challenges head-on and takes decisive actions to restore safety and order in Anambra State. His silence is not just disappointing; it's a dereliction of his duty as the governor. The people of Anambra deserve better, and they deserve a leader who will stand up for their safety and wellbeing. Governor Soludo, your inaction speaks volumes, and it's time for you to either step up and address these challenges or step aside for the sake of Anambra's future.