Amid the ongoing nationwide protests, activities have resumed in Anambra State as against the situation on the 1st of August, when the capital, Awka and the commercial centre Onitsha were deserted.
Motorists and traders who had avoided businesses on the first day of the protest because of the uncertainty of the day gradually returned to their normal routines yesterday.
TNC correspondent who went round town on Day Two of the protest, observed that there was increased vehicular and human movements on the major roads in Onitsha metropolis and other major cities, as residents of the state have said they will not be participating in the demonstrations.
While acknowledging the efforts of those protesting in other parts of the country, the people said sit-at-home is enough protest
They, however, called on the federal government to call the protesting youths for a dialogue, urging security agencies to ensure peaceful protest.
“There is no better way to protest in the Southeast than the sit-at-home, especially when one considers the brutal response of security agencies whenever people protest here in the Southeast.
“It is heartwarming to see that our people are becoming wiser.
“We believe that people in other regions should protest for now because for a long time, we have been protesting in the Southeast, because of the injustices capable of causing chaos in the country but no one wanted to to join us.
“Somehow, Igbos have been able to survive hardships and developed immunity to the problems of the country. So, to ask them to protest, is a total waste of time, because the problem the people are feeling today, they have felt long ago and developed thick skull to it,” he said.
Meanwhile, the State Police Commissioner has commended the citizens of Anambra State, particularly the youths, for their exemplary conduct in promoting national peace.
The Commissioner, who gave the commendation in a statement issued on Friday by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to enhancing public security and safety.
The statement read; “In this regard, the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, have re-strategized their security patrols and surveillance operations across the State.
“These measures are aimed at preventing crime and ensuring that law-abiding citizens can carry out their lawful activities without harassment.
“The Commissioner of Police urges the public to remain vigilant, and law-abiding, and to report any criminal activities or breaches of public peace to the nearest police station.
“For immediate assistance, the Command’s emergency hotlines are available: 112, 07039194332, and 08039334002. Additionally, the following Area Command contacts are operational: Area Command Awka 08033382097, Area Command Aguata 08066069335, Area Command Ihiala 08136025679, Area Command Otucha 08035602795, Area Command Onitsha 08033979326, Area Command Nnewi 08028593542, Area Command Orafite 08066664445 and Area Command Ogidi 08037505738.”
