New Anambra State Homeland Security Law: An Attempt to Combat Crime
Awka, Anambra State – Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo‘s administration has introduced the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025, to address escalating crime and enhance security within the state. This legislation aims to create a secure and thriving environment for residents and businesses. The law outlines various offenses and associated penalties, including significant fines and jail terms, targeting those involved in criminal activities.
The law is designed to combat a range of offenses, including those related to supernatural practices, the use of religious places for criminal activities, and the duties of landlords and property owners.
Key Provisions of the Law:
Use of Supernatural Powers: The law targets anyone administering charms or substances to another person for the purpose of committing an offense or accumulating wealth through supernatural means rather than legitimate means, along with those who publicize such wealth accumulation. Penalties include a six-year jail sentence and/or a N20 million fine. Sacrifices and the disposal of charms in public areas also carry the same penalties. Additionally, those falsely claiming to possess supernatural powers face the same consequences, and they are subject to investigation.
Religious Place Offenses: The law makes it illegal to use religious places to commit or aid crimes. Those found guilty face a six-year jail term and/or a N20 million fine. Additionally, the Governor is authorized to seal any religious place suspected of being used for criminal activities pending investigation.
Duties of Landlords and Proprietors: Landlords are now required to collect and submit specific information from tenants, including valid identification and occupation details, to local authorities. Failure to comply can lead to one year of imprisonment and/or a N5 million fine. Hotel and short-let operators must obtain valid identification from guests, install surveillance cameras, and submit recorded data to the government. Failure to comply could result in six months of imprisonment and/or a N1 million fine, with the Commissioner of Hospitality having the power to revoke licenses.
Property Offenses: The law specifically targets the use of property for criminal activities, including kidnapping and banditry. Anyone allowing their land or building to be used as a base for these activities faces a 25-year jail sentence without the option of a fine. Additionally, harboring individuals in forested areas for purposes unrelated to farming or lawful business carries the same penalty. Properties used for such offenses will be seized by the State Government.
Assaulting Security Personnel: Assaulting or obstructing members of the State Internal Security (Agunechemba), supervisory committees, or security operatives in the line of duty carries a N6 million fine, six months imprisonment, or both.
Historical Context: This law repeals the Anambra State Group Vigilante Law of 2014, reflecting the state’s current security priorities.
Impact and Implications: Governor Soludo’s administration hopes that the new law will safeguard the people of Anambra, create a secure environment, and foster economic growth. The government urges all residents, businesses, and stakeholders to adhere to the law for the collective safety and prosperity of the state.
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