Governor Bassey Otu has launched a security sensitization campaign in Calabar, flagging off a city-wide roadshow aimed at promoting intelligence sharing among residents. The event, held on Tuesday, was conducted in preparation for the upcoming Security Summit in the state with the theme "Unite Against Terror". Otu was represented by the State Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono (rtd), who stated the administration would not wait for terrorism to occur before taking preventive action. He emphasized that security agencies depend on public cooperation, urging residents to report suspicious activities with the message: "If you see something, say something."
The campaign is designed to spread awareness across communities and foster collaboration between citizens and security forces. Obono noted that the forthcoming summit would bring together stakeholders to develop strategies for sustaining peace in Cross River State. Kenny Wariboko, representing the Department of State Services, supported the initiative, stressing that those behind terror acts often live within communities and that security agencies cannot combat threats alone. Acting Commissioner of Police Effanga Etim affirmed police backing for the drive, stating that peace is essential for development. Beatrice Akpala, Chairperson of the Central Planning Committee for the summit, said insecurity hinders community development and affirmed the Otu administration's commitment to ensuring residents can live, farm, and conduct business without interference.
The governor's administration is pushing public involvement in security despite no recorded terrorism in the state. This shifts responsibility to residents while positioning the summit as a preventive measure rather than a response to an existing threat.
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