Retired Major-General Ike Nwachukwu has strongly criticized the rising tide of xenophobia in Africa, particularly regarding attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. Speaking at a security summit in Umuahia, the former administrator of the old Imo State highlighted Nigeria’s historical sacrifices to dismantle apartheid and argued that it is unacceptable for Africans to now target one another. He described xenophobia as an obstacle to the continent’s progress.
Addressing the broader issue of insecurity in the South-East, Nwachukwu emphasized that true peace requires more than just military intervention. He argued that justice, responsive leadership, and public trust are essential to fixing systemic issues like kidnapping and institutional violence. He suggested that intelligence-led policing, community involvement, and youth empowerment are vital for long-term stability.
Furthermore, Nwachukwu advocated for a new military division in the South-East to reflect the region’s economic and strategic importance. He also commended Abia State Governor Alex Otti for his governance efforts. Complementing these remarks, Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke noted that the Nigerian Air Force is actively working to dismantle criminal networks through Operation Udoka. Aneke urged citizens to cooperate with security forces, noting that ending violence requires a collaborative effort between the military and local communities.
