Ihiala Residents Hail Army over Improved Security facilitating mass return of fleeing residents

By Praise Chinecherem

People of Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State have commended the Nigeria Army for assisting them restore peace and security in the area leading to mass return of fleeing residents in some communities that were badly affected by insecurity in the area.

The locals conveyed their thanksgiving and appreciation to the Nigerian Army, through a letter to the Commander 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) Onitsha, Col BM Yakubu from office of Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Ihiala LGA and President General of Mbosi Town, Pastor Azuka Innocent Okolie.

The Council Area has been hotspot of the rampage of unknown gunmen who took over town like Isseke, forcing its traditional ruler to flee the town.

Other affected communities in the area were Mbosi, Azia, Orsumoghu, Lilu and Ubuluisuzo, including some town in Imo State sharing boundary with Ihiala LGA such as Orsuihiteukwa and Awoidemmili in Orsu council area, Uburuihejiofor Uburu and Omuma and Nnempi in Oru Local Government Area.

The letter titled “Heartfelt appreciation for your ever ready service and commitment to peace and security of Mbosi, Ebonesie and Ihiala LGA at large”, thanked the Nigerian Army, particularly soldiers of 302 Artillery Regiment (General Support) swift response to distress calls, confronting threats and maintaining calm, even in the most challenging situations.

The letter read,” On behalf of the people of Mbosi town, the entire Ebonesie Zone, and indeed the whole of Ihiala Local Government Area, I write to express our deep gratitude to you, your office and your gallant soldiers for your unwavering dedication to duty, courage, and sacrifice in the protection of lives and property within our area.

“The people of Mbosi and Ebonesie have watched with admiration the professionalism, discipline, and readiness for action consistently demonstrated by the Officers’ and soldiers of the 302 Artillery Regiment.

“Your troops have stood firm in the face of danger, responding swiftly to distress calls, confronting threats, and maintaining calm even in the most challenging situations.

“Beyond your military efficiency, we are particularly grateful for the human and approachable conduct of your soldiers, whose respectful interaction with civilians has built trust and renewed confidence among our people.

“They have become symbols of assurance, men who not only carry arms but also carry compassion and patriotism in their hearts.

“Your continuous collaboration with community leaders, especially in Mbosi and across Ebonesie Zone, has strengthened local security initiatives such as our Agu Neche Mba Security. This synergy has greatly contributed to restoration of peace and stability in Ihial LGA.

“Under your command, we have witnessed a tangible transformation, streets once abandoned have come alive again, businesses, markets are reopening and our people are behemoth to live without fear.

“These achievements are a testament to your leadership, discipline, and the selfless sacrifice of your men, some of whom have paid the ultimate price in the service of our nation.

“Please convey our deepest appreciation to all the commanding officers and the entire rank and file of 302 Artillery Regiment for their gallantry and professionalism.

“You have written your names on the hearts of Ndi Mbosi, Ndi Ebonesie and the entire Ihiala LGA people.

“May God continue to bless, guide, and protect you and your men as you carry out this noble duty of defending our nation.”