Operation Kwechiri: Ezugwu Deploys 320 Vigilantes, Launches Patrol Fleet to Strengthen Uzo-Uwani Security

Following the security transformation agenda of Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Chairman of Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Barr. Chijioke Ezugwu, has launched a major security initiative tagged “Operation Kwechiri,” aimed at intensifying the fight against insecurity across the council area.

The Chairman unveiled the operation alongside a fleet of security assets, including one Hilux gun truck, three Sienna patrol vans, and 25 brand-new motorcycles, dedicated to the Local Government’s Neighborhood Watch. The initiative is designed to ensure 24-hour surveillance across the 16 political wards in Uzo-Uwani.

Speaking at the inauguration event held at Nkpologu Ward, Barr. Ezugwu said the new security architecture aligns with Governor Mbah’s bold investments in modern policing, including the soon-to-be-completed statewide Command and Control Center, the deployment of AI-enabled surveillance cameras, the Distress Response Squad, and recent acquisition of high-tech drones and patrol vehicles.

“Today, we are following in our governor’s footsteps through the launch of Operation Kwechiri,” Ezugwu said. “This initiative represents our resolve not to allow any space for insecurity, crime, or criminality. It embodies the resilience and tenacity of our security personnel in defending our people.”

He announced the deployment of additional 320 trained vigilantes, drawn from the Neighborhood Watch, State Forest Guard, and other federal security agencies, in a renewed push to secure homes, farms, roads, and forest corridors.

Reiterating his commitment, Ezugwu declared:

“I remain undeterred in protecting lives and property in Uzo-Uwani. I am ever ready to lay down my life for my people. I do not issue orders from the comfort of my office—I lead the fight into the thickest bushes to ensure criminals face justice.”

To further consolidate the operation, the Chairman disclosed plans to build a Uzo-Uwani Command and Control Center, designed to digitally coordinate and monitor security activities across the LGA. He also announced the clearing of strategic routes, including:

• Adani–Opanda–Nkpologu–Obimo Road
• Uzo-Edem–Nrobo–Abi-Nimbo Road
• Uvuru–Ukpatta–Umulokpa Road

Beyond security, he emphasized the council’s ongoing efforts to tackle unemployment through empowerment of over 1,000 youths, while boosting agricultural productivity.

Governor Mbah, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Security, Mr. Vincent Onyeabor, commended Ezugwu for translating promises into action.

“Ezugwu does not just talk—he works his talk,” Onyeabor noted. “The cooperation and empowerment we are witnessing today show real commitment to making Uzo-Uwani safer.”

Other speakers, including the Chief Security Officer of Government House, SP Osundu Ifeanyi; the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Frank Anioma; and the Nsukka Zonal Area Commander, ACP Stephen Gudu, lauded the Chairman for his proactive leadership and urged security operatives to justify the government’s investment.

The launch of Operation Kwechiri marks a significant step in Uzo-Uwani’s evolving security framework, strengthening grassroots intelligence, mobility, and rapid response capabilities across the LGA.

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