By Tony Okafor, Awka
SERIOUS cracks have emerged within Agunechemba, a key security outfit in Anambra State, as insiders allege high-handedness, discrimination, and a brewing power tussle that could derail recent security gains.
Top sources within the agency say tension is escalating, with divisions along indigene and non-indigene lines threatening unity among personnel.
At the centre of the storm is Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser on Community Security to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, who is accused of fuelling discord within the ranks.
An insider alleged that Emeakayi is sidelining the Head of Operations, Chinenye Ihenko, reportedly because of his non-indigene background—sparking resentment among officers.
“He is no longer just advising; he is now taking over operations,” the source claimed, accusing the aide of issuing direct orders to commanders and personnel, thereby weakening the chain of command.
Another source corroborated the claim, alleging that the adviser has taken control of staffing decisions, sidelining established structures in what was described as a dangerous power grab.
Observers say the development contradicts the governor’s widely held stance on merit over state of origin.
The crisis has deepened with allegations that operational funds have been withheld, allegedly crippling the agency’s effectiveness in combating crime and banditry.
There are also claims that the Lion Building—once a strategic operational base—has been converted into a detention facility, with the Head of Operations reportedly reduced to overseeing detainees.
Sources warned that if urgent steps are not taken, the situation could spiral into chaos and undermine recent security gains.
However, Agunechemba spokesperson, Nweke Nweke, dismissed the allegations as false, adding.
“There is no discrimination within Agunechemba,” he said, attributing the claims to internal disagreements rather than any form of systemic bias.
He warned those spreading what he described as baseless rumours to desist or face consequences.
Efforts to reach Ken Emeakayi for comment were unsuccessful, as his phone line was unreachable at the time of filing this report.
Meanwhile, attention has turned to Soludo to intervene and calm rising tensions before the crisis escalates into a major security setback.