Ugwuanyi approves purchase of 42 patrol vans for effective policing

The Enugu State Government says it plans to purchase no fewer than 42 patrol vans to reinforce security of lives and property in the state.

Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi said this on Tuesday in Enugu during a civic reception in his honour by the GRA Enugu Neighbourhood Watch Association (GENWA).

Our correspondent reports that the state government had in February donated 22 patrol vans to the police command in the state.

The governor, however, said that the state had approved the purchase of additional 42 in keeping with his administration’s resolve to secure the state.

He said Neighbourhood watch Associations in the state would also benefit from the allocation of patrol vans.

On the allegation that the GRA recreation centre was under threat by land speculators, the governor warned against any form of encroachment on the land.

Earlier in an address of welcome, the Chairman of the association, Prof. Agu Gab, said the event was aimed at celebrating good governance in the state.

He said members of the association were encouraged by the fact that the governor had within three years of his administration effected positive change in every aspect of the people’s lives.

“Your administration has continued to record verifiable achievements with human face,” he said.

Agu commended the governor for his passion in the welfare of public servants in the state as well as those of traders, artisans and students.

He said residents of the GRA wanted to be part of the success story and would wish that the state government extend its massive infrastructural revolution to the area.

“Many roads within the GRA have become so deplorable that residents find it difficult to drive to their homes,” he said.

He said it was sad that contracts for the construction of some of the roads were hitherto awarded, work started but abandoned halfway.

“This has caused erosion to threaten many buildings in the areas,” he said.

He said GENWA being the first of such associations wanted to contribute to the security of lives and property in the state.

Agu appealed for the donation of patrol vans to enhance effective participation in community policing in the area.

He also appealed to the governor to intervene in the alleged plan by some land speculators to sell off the only recreation facility in the area.

“The conversion of Polo Park to shopping mall has deprived the GRA community of a recreation centre,’’ Agu said.

He said residents of the area irrespective of party affiliations had resolved to support the future political ambition of the governor.