CurrentReport Blog As the EndBadGovernance protest enters its third day, residents of Imo State have voiced their displeasure over the deployment of aircraft to the state by the Inspector General of Police (IGP). Describing the move as unnecessary and potentially exacerbating the already tense situation, many locals believe it was an overreaction.
Confirming the deployment, the spokesperson of the State Police Command, ASP Henry Okoye, stated that the action aligns with the IGP’s directive to ensure total security in the state. He reassured the public not to panic. “Kudos to the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for deploying Police Helicopter on Surveillance-Air-Patrol in Imo,” Okoye said.
However, the sight of the aircraft hovering over Owerri on Saturday caused panic among residents. Obinna Nkemakolam, a commercial bus driver, argued that the deployment was unnecessary as Imo, like other South-Eastern states, is not partaking in the nationwide protest. He questioned the focus on the South-East, suggesting more attention should be given to more volatile regions like the North-East and North-Central.
“Imo, likewise other states in the South-East, is peaceful. We are not participating in the protest to avoid being made the scapegoat. I don’t know the essence of sending the aircraft. I’m happy that Ndigbo are now speaking with one voice,” Nkemakolam stated.
Similarly, Mrs. Emecheta Chikadibia, a trader at Ekeonunwa Market, recounted the panic caused by the helicopter’s sound as people watched apprehensively. She opined that the local Police and Civil Defense could handle the situation without the need for aircraft.
A youth leader named Jasper echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the South-East’s non-participation in the protest is to avoid being targeted. “We are not participating in the protest yet we are seeing heavily armed security men to the extent of sending aircraft when nothing is happening. Who knows what would have happened if we eventually participated in the protest?” he questioned.
Despite the heightened security measures, full commercial activities have resumed in the state. Residents were seen going about their businesses, with markets and shops fully operational.
