Elders and leaders of thought in Anambra on Wednesday in Awka blamed the security challenge in the state on rising unemployment, moral decadence and public behaviour of corrupt politicians.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that they spoke during a security summit, convened by Mr Nigeria-Henry Mbachu, member representing Awka South I constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Some of the security challenges facing the state are cult-related premeditated killings and kidnapping for ransom.
Those who spoke include Ozo title holders, village heads, women leaders, clergies and politicians, made the recommendation at a security summit.
In his opening remarks, Mbachu said he was worried by the prevailing cult activities which had so far resulted in the death of no fewer than 34 youths since April.
He said that said he was motivated to convene the summit to identify the causes of the development and proffer solutions to them.
He said there had been erection of security gates and establishment of 18 vigilante groups, the situation still required that more should be done.
The secretary of the Ozo title holders, Ozo Ndu Nwakalor, said group had resolved to ex-communicate and withdraw the titles of any of its members who facilitated bail for any suspected criminal.
The President-General, Awka Women Town Union, Mrs Ogechukwu Ekwuozor, urged various security agencies in the state to prioritise security of the Awka.
She urged mothers to take up the challenge of monitoring the behaviour of their children and stop shielding them when they indulge in criminality.
A Labour Party (LP) aspirant in the 2025 governorship election in the state, Mr Valentine Ozigbo, urged the state government to prioritise security.
He said the provision of employment opportunities for the youth was critical in fighting insecurity. (NAN)
