Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abia and Imo states have moved jointly to secure the ever-busy Aba–Owerri expressway following a series of fresh attacks on commuters. With holiday traffic already rising, the two governors took swift action to prevent criminals from exploiting the heavy movement on the route, which remains a major link for traders, workers and returning holidaymakers.
Governor Alex Otti and Governor Hope Uzodinma met on 4 December 2025 at Government House Owerri for an emergency security session. At the meeting, both leaders agreed to deploy a unified security operation drawn from the Army, Navy, Police, DSS and other agencies to ensure constant patrol, rapid response and uninterrupted safety along the corridor. The operation begins on 5 December 2025.
Security teams will patrol continuously from Owerrinta in Abia State to Owerri in Imo State, providing round-the-clock coverage. Surveillance units will also monitor the adjoining bushes using drones and advanced tracking devices to detect unusual movement and prevent ambush attempts. Authorities say the aim is to maintain a twenty-four-hour watch over the expressway and reassure travellers during the festive season.
Governor Otti described the recent arrest of suspects linked to the attack on his advance team as a strong signal that criminal activity will not be tolerated. Both governors stressed that anyone attempting to threaten travellers will face firm consequences. They called on residents and visitors to remain calm, cooperate with security operatives and promptly report suspicious activity.
The last three months have seen multiple incidents targeting motorists on key highways in the region, including isolated attacks near Mgbidi and sporadic kidnappings along the Okigwe axis, prompting heightened concerns ahead of the year’s end. The new joint deployment reflects growing regional collaboration aimed at curbing these threats and protecting vital economic routes.
Stone Reporters’ remark notes that similar coordinated interventions have taken place recently in other parts of the South-East, such as cross-boundary patrols between Anambra and Enugu, showing a broader trend toward shared security responsibility among neighbouring states. The Abia–Imo alliance fits into this pattern of proactive responses to rising mobility risks.
In a professional observation, the rapid agreement between both governors demonstrates that security challenges on inter-state corridors often demand unified action rather than isolated efforts. If sustained, the initiative may strengthen public confidence in the ability of state governments to work together when safety is threatened.
The development concludes with renewed assurance that the expressway will remain open and safeguarded as holiday activities peak, offering travellers a clearer path home during one of the busiest periods of the year.
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