GOC seeks backing, synergy with Imo State traditional rulers in limiting insecurity

Maj.-Gen. Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, has sought further support and synergy of Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers in curbing insecurity within the state.

Dada said this on Monday when he paid homage to the Chairman of Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Emmanuel Okeke (Eze Imo), at his office in Owerri, Imo State.

According to the GOC, the homage is to further strengthen the synergy and cordial relationship between the military and traditional institutions in the state and to enhance Civil-Military relations.

Dada, who thanked the traditional ruler for the warm reception given to him and his entourage, also said that the purpose of his visit was to register his presence as the new GOC, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu.

“I am here to seek guidance, support, and royal blessings from your royal majesty and members of the council of traditional rulers in the state.

“The Nigerian Army appreciates your royal majesty and the council’s efforts and roles in ensuring peaceful coexistence in the state,” he said.

The GOC further assured the monarch that under his watch, “the safety and security of the people of Imo State and the entire South East in general is highly guaranteed”.

Responding, Chief Okeke pledged to support the GOC and troops of the Division in the area of information sharing and intelligence gathering so as to flush out criminal elements within the state.

The traditional ruler applauded the GOC and Governor of Imo State, Gov. Hope Uzodinma, for their relentless efforts to restore normalcy in Imo State.

“The state has been facing some insecurity challenges for some time now; but we believe that soon it will be over,” he said.

He also promised that he and the members of the traditional rulers’ council of the state will provide all necessary support and synergy to ensure that the insecurity bedeviling the state is brought to a stand-still.

Highpoints of the visit were the presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.