The Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to an inclusive policy that welcomes Nigerians irrespective of their state of origin, while maintaining a zero-tolerance stance towards crime and criminality.
The Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, stated this in Awka while speaking as a panelist at the seventh anniversary celebration of Zaram Life Foundation, themed, “From Grassroots Action to Lasting Impact: Building Communities Where Everyone Thrives.”
Responding to a question on migration and its impact on the state, Mefor described migration, whether voluntary or driven by war, famine or natural disasters, as a reality for Ndi Anambra. He noted that available records indicate that up to 50 per cent of Anambra people live outside the state.
He described Anambra as the “New York” of the South-East, explaining that the state attracts people from neighbouring states in search of economic and other opportunities. According to him, the government has no objection to welcoming them, as Anambra people equally expect acceptance and opportunities in other parts of the country.
Mefor cited Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s inclusive governance approach, noting that more than 40 per cent of the state’s law enforcement personnel and many civil servants are non-indigenes.
He also disclosed that the state’s free education policy benefits children from neighbouring communities outside Anambra who cross the borders daily to attend schools in the state. He said Governor Soludo had insisted that the arrangement should continue in the spirit of mutual acceptance and peaceful coexistence.
However, the Commissioner stressed that the state’s hospitality should not be mistaken for tolerance of criminal activities.
“Anambra is open to everybody, but it is not open to crime and criminality,” Mefor stated.
He explained that the government does not profile suspected criminals based on their states of origin, noting that such an approach could expose innocent people to discrimination and harm.
Mefor urged community leaders to caution their people against criminal activities, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in sustaining peace, security and harmonious coexistence across the state.
