Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
The government of Anambra State has directed operatives of its state-backed security outfit, Agunechemba, to stop wearing masks while carrying out official duties, in a policy aimed at improving transparency and reducing impersonation risks during security operations.
The directive was issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, during a meeting with commanders of the security outfit drawn from communities across the state. The order takes immediate effect and applies to field operations across all local government areas.
According to the government, the decision was taken to prevent situations where criminal elements could exploit the use of masks by security personnel to disguise themselves and carry out illegal activities under the cover of legitimate enforcement operations.
Officials also stated that the visibility of security operatives is necessary to build public trust and ensure accountability, especially in communities where Agunechemba personnel operate closely with residents during patrols and enforcement activities.
Before the ban, operatives of the security outfit reportedly used masks as part of their operational gear, often bearing different designs and inscriptions. The practice had drawn public concern in some quarters over identification challenges during field operations.
The government further emphasized that operatives are already known within their local communities, reducing the need for facial concealment during duty. Authorities argued that proper uniforms and identification measures should be sufficient for recognition and legitimacy.
The directive also warned that any operative who violates the order, except in specific special assignments, would face disciplinary action, including arrest and internal sanctions.
Agunechemba, established under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law framework, is a community-based security structure launched in 2025 to support crime prevention and local intelligence gathering across the state.
Security officials added that while operational safety remains important, it must not come at the expense of public confidence or accountability in security engagements.
Authorities also reiterated that the policy is part of broader reforms aimed at regulating checkpoints, improving conduct, and strengthening intelligence-led policing across the state.
Stone Reporters note that the decision reflects ongoing debates in Nigeria over the balance between operational anonymity for security personnel and the need for public identification in civilian environments.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments