By Our Reporter
The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has levelled sharp criticisms against the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration over growing security disparities, following reports of recurring burglaries in the immediate neighbourhood of the Cross River State Governor’s private residence.
Speaking on the state of security in Calabar via a Facebook post on his official handle, Atiku highlighted complaints from residents living in the same neighbourhood as Governor Otu. He said despite the presence of heavily armed police personnel and two security roadblocks guarding the governor’s private residence at Ekorinim 1, neighbouring households continue to fall victim to armed break-ins.
According to reports cited by the candidate, one resident recently had an air conditioner and freezer stolen, while two other homes on an adjacent street were invaded by robbers just last week.
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“This is security, APC style: two roadblocks for the governor, and none for the people next door,” Atiku stated.
He pointed out that the governor has operated state affairs from his private home for nearly three years while the official Government House undergoes renovation. He emphasized the paradox of citizens living in constant fear right beside a heavily guarded gubernatorial sanctuary.
“If the APC cannot secure the street beside the governor, what does it offer the villages beyond the capital?” he questioned. “Security that stops at the governor’s gate is not security; it is a fence.”
Outlining his security agenda, the ADC flagbearer pledged comprehensive structural reforms to Nigeria’s law enforcement apparatus if elected. He expressed commitment to converting the Nigerian Police Force from a “regime-protecting force into a citizen-focused public service.”
Meanwhile, in a swift reaction, the Cross River State Police Command stated that there was no recent report of a robbery incident in the said neighbourhood.
According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, on Tuesday, “Preliminary checks with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) State housing Division, responsible for the area indicate that no recent formal reports of such incidents have been received at the station. However, the Command does not discount the concerns raised by residents and recognises the importance of promptly addressing all security-related complaints.”
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, has directed heightened intelligence gathering, increased security monitoring and a comprehensive assessment of the security situation in the area to verify the claims and identify any emerging security concerns requiring intervention.
“The Commissioner of Police reiterates that the safety and security of every resident remain a priority, irrespective of status, location or proximity to any public office holder. Residents who may have experienced such incidents or possess credible information are encouraged to report to the nearest Police station or contact the Command Control Room through the following numbers: 0704 177 7060 or 0705 335 5415. The Command assures members of the public that all credible reports will receive appropriate attention.
“The Command remains committed to intelligence-led policing, effective community engagement and proactive security measures across Cross River State. Residents are encouraged to sustain cooperation with the Police by promptly reporting suspicious movements and criminal activities to facilitate timely intervention,” the statement reads.
