Anambra Vigilantes Demand Better Pay, Threaten Withdrawal Amid Rising Crime

Amid rising concerns over insecurity in Anambra State, the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) has threatened to suspend its services due to inadequate remuneration. The AVG, operating under the Anambra Security Network (ASN), has expressed frustration over poor working conditions, which they say are unsustainable given the increasing risk and economic hardship in the country.

The ASN, in a statement issued in Awka and signed by its president, retired Colonel Jude Obi, called on both the Anambra State Government and wealthy individuals in the state to improve the wages of AVG operatives. Currently, members of the vigilante group are paid ₦100,000 monthly—a figure the ASN describes as grossly insufficient considering the risks involved in their work and the harsh economic realities.

The group warned that unless the state reviews the monthly salary to between ₦200,000 and ₦300,000 by October 2024, the AVG will initiate a service withdrawal protest. “₦100,000 cannot even buy basic necessities like a bag of rice in today’s economy,” the statement lamented.

The call for better pay comes as insecurity continues to plague Anambra, with a resurgence of kidnappings and the violent activities of Unknown Gunmen (UGM) in various parts of the state. According to the ASN, the AVG has been instrumental in curbing high-profile crimes but is struggling due to a lack of proper support.

The statement also highlighted the urgent need for new operational vehicles, as many of the AVG’s current vehicles are obsolete or damaged. Furthermore, the ASN emphasized the importance of equipping the group with modern arms and ammunition to enhance their effectiveness.

“We are asking for more than just a pay raise,” the statement continued. “We need retraining, proper equipment, and incentives such as insurance to protect operatives in case of injury or death. Those who have shown exceptional bravery in fighting crime should be compensated to encourage further dedication.”

To further combat rising crime, the ASN urged the government to establish new security sectors in critical areas, including Ogbunka-Umunze, Agulu-Nanka-Umuchu, Ogbaru-Ugwuanocha, Azia-Lilu, and Otuocha-Anam. These sectors, according to the ASN, would help contain the influence of criminal gangs.

Retired Col. Obi also criticized the allocation of the state’s security vote, urging Governor Charles Soludo to direct even a portion of the funds, which run into billions of naira, toward addressing the escalating insecurity. “One month’s security vote could go a long way in solving these problems,” he remarked.