Abia, Imo Unite To Launch Security Operation On Aba–Owerri Highway

The governments of Abia and Imo States have partnered to establish a joint security taskforce aimed at curbing the surge in criminal activities along the Aba–Owerri expressway as the yuletide season approaches. The initiative is designed to enhance safety on the busy corridor, which has recently become a target for kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal elements.

The decision was reached during an emergency security meeting held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, between Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, at the Imo State Government House in Owerri. Both leaders reviewed the deteriorating security situation on the route and agreed on urgent coordinated action.

Under the arrangement, a multi-agency taskforce consisting of military personnel, naval operatives, police officers, DSS agents, and other security units will be deployed to secure the highway. The joint operation will begin on Friday, December 5, 2025, featuring continuous patrols from Owerrinta in Abia to Owerri in Imo.

In addition to ground patrols, the taskforce will carry out aerial surveillance using advanced drones and monitoring equipment to comb nearby forests and suspected criminal hideouts. Governor Otti praised Governor Uzodinma for the swift arrest of suspects connected to the recent attack on members of his advance team and other travelers.

Both governors reassured motorists and holiday travelers of their safety during the festive period, warning that criminal activities along the expressway will be met with firm and decisive action.