Imo inaugurates 7000 personnel for state vigilance services

Seven thousand (7000) able-bodied men and women have been inaugurated as members of the Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation by Governor Hope Uzodinma as a part of the efforts to fight crime and criminality in the communities in the state.

“As a state, we have witnessed a transformation,” the governor said, while 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.”

Uzodinma stated that the establishment of the Imo State 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.

The newly-trained members of the Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation 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 Uzodinma said.

He maintained that the inauguration served 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.

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.

Governor Uzodinma 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.

Read also: Gunmen kill 15, set vehicles ablaze in Imo state attack

Modestus Osakwe, the commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, said the launch of the Imo State Security Organization (ISSO) was a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and security, saying that it was 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.

Osakwe commended Governor Uzodinma for his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to prioritising the security and wellbeing of Imo people. “Security remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth,” Osakwe emphasized.

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