Insurgency: Eno sets up counter terrorism unit base in Akwa Ibom
Akwa Ibom Governor Initiates Counter-Terrorism Unit Base Construction
UYO, Nigeria — Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has launched the construction of a Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) base in his hometown of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area in response to increasing reports of violent crime across the Southern region of Nigeria.
Maj.-Gen. Koko Essien (retired), the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways, announced the development during a ministerial press briefing in Uyo on Friday. He stated that the new facility aims to prevent and effectively address any potential insurgency in the state.
Essien emphasized that the governor has received approval from the Nigerian Police Force for the establishment of the base. He refuted claims suggesting that the construction was unnecessary, despite the absence of an immediate insurgency threat in Akwa Ibom.
“The governor has secured the approval of the Force Headquarters to construct a counter-terrorism unit base in Nsit Ubium to combat terrorism and violent crimes,” Essien said. “Some people question the need for a CTU in Akwa Ibom, but we must consider emerging threats. While terrorism was once thought to be confined to the North, recent incidents in Southern states underscore the need for preparedness.”
The Counter-Terrorism Unit is a specialized division of the Nigeria Police tasked with combating terrorism, armed insurgency, and violent crime throughout the nation. Its responsibilities will include monitoring terrorist activities, protecting critical infrastructure, and managing hostage situations.
Additionally, Essien revealed plans to commission a Centralized Security and Emergency Response Centre in the near future. This center will serve as a digital hub coordinating security operations, real-time surveillance, and information sharing among various security agencies, as well as managing emergency fire and ambulance services across the state.
Regarding the proposed relocation of the Uyo Correctional Centre, Essien noted that the state government has acquired a significant parcel of land in Nung Ukim Ikono for this purpose, pending approval from the Federal Ministry of Interior.
