Imo state government has indicated it’s readiness to synergies with the Naval Base Oguta on thorough security surveillance in the region.
The state Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma who was represented by the Commissioner for Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence, Dr Henry Uzo Okafor stated this during an Intelligence courtesy call on the command .
Speaking,the commissioner said the state government would expedite action in synergy with the Navy to tackle security challenges in the region ,especially at Oguta Egbuoma axis.
Prince Okafor also disclosed that it would be in order to assuage the security demands of the people against the recent past criminal attacks in the area.
He said government has resolve to improve on security measures already put in place to secure the region and ensure that unsuspecting publics go about their daily businesses without fear of molestation or risking their lives.
He also harped on further resolve for a regular security up keep through the Navy and other security Agencies in the state; urging the people of the area to consider the security steps as one meant for their good and safety despite how harsh it may appear.
Dr Okafor explained the reason for the Intelligence visit to the Naval Base, which he said is interest for the safety of his people, oil companies situated in the area and for the good of Naval personnel whom he described as the ‘ civilian angle of the Army owing to, it’s friendly operational approach towards the people, in addition to it’s professional Marine skills.
He went ahead to express delight with the location of the Naval Base in the area that is in proximity with the water-way and various oil companies operating within; noting that it paves way for adequate protection.
The Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence Commissioner also decried the spate of illegal laying of oil pipe lines by unscrupulous oil companies who as well engage in lifting of raw crude oil in trucks during the late hours of the night without going through the official procedures and payments of government taxes and levies.
He therefore warned those involve in such unpatriotic act to desist forthwith.
He promised to give vital political and corporate assistance within his reach to enhance sustainability of security surveillance in the region by the Naval Command.
Dr okafor also charged the Naval command in an official letter to Oguta community to reaffirm its interest over the 70 hectares of Land given to the Nigerian Navy for the building of their permanent site in the state, which he noted has been lying farlow since up to 40 years.
The commissioner argued that his Community has need for other use of such land .
Earlier in his remarks, the Commander ,Oguta Naval Base, Commodore Mohammed Basheer Salisi expressed joy over the intelligence call on his command.
He commended the efforts of the Honourable Commissioner on Intelligence and information gathering which he described as helpful in combating security challenges in the region.
Commodore salisi also disclosed that the Nigerian Navy will soon commerce development of the permanent site in Oguta which awaits 2025 Naval budgetary allocation,even as he expressed gratitude to the people of Oguta and Imo State government for the gift of Land.
The highlight of the intelligence visit was the signing of the visitors’ attendance register, therein the Niger Delta Affairs and Intelligence Commissioner stated his visit and discussion with the Naval Base on how to improve security and Niger Delta areas, including protection of oil facilities in Imo State and share Intelligence.
