By Chinenye Ukpabia
The pioneer commissioner for Homeland Security in Imo State, Dr. Ugorji Okechukwu Ugorji, has commended Governor Hope Uzodimma, CON on the inauguration of officers of the Imo Security Service Organization (ISSO). The immediate past Commissioner said the inauguration was further testament to the Governor’s resolve to protect life and property in Imo State, as well as a demonstration of the staying power of the Ministry of Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs.
In a statement released from the offices of OFO Educational Foundation, Dr. Ugorji said that “The inauguration has been long awaited. I salute Governor Hope Uzodimma. And I commend all the men and women who have volunteered to put their lives on the line for their fellow citizens,” Ugorji said.
According to a report from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Chief Nwachukwu Oguwuike, a 7,000 person strong outfit, now called the Imo Vigilante Services Organization was inaugurated on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square. Those who were present at the inauguration included the current Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Osakwe, and Dr. Ugorji, who said he observed the proceedings in a quiet corner of the arena.
Ugorji called on the Governor and the LGA Chairmen of the 27 Local Government Areas to ensure that adequate resources and facilities are provided for the new officers to do their jobs. The former Commissioner went on to say that it is important that the officers understand that the Ezes (the traditional rulers) in each Autonomous Community are heads of security in their respective communities. “It is important for the chain of command of the new organization to have synergy and operability with the Ezes,” he advised.
Ugorji also recommends that the state obtain life insurance policies for all trained Vigilante Officers who are sworn to serve. “I had incidents where we lost gallant Vigilante Officers while they were on duty during the most difficult periods of our security challenges in the state. I saw first hand the pains of their windows and children who came to my office when such officers are lost. Therefore, it would be great if the state would guarantee that there will be fixed amounts paid to the families of our fallen officers; this guarantee is best assured by a group life insurance policy paid for by the state,” Ugorji suggested.
On the day of the inauguration, Dr. Ugorji said he could not help thinking of General Richard Duru all day. General Duru was the Coordinator of the Imo State Security Organization (IMSO), which now appears to have been renamed. “General Duru and I recruited and trained the first set of professional Vigilante Officers under the 3R Shared Prosperity Government. He is a fine officer and gentleman. A great brother and friend. I miss him very much and I dedicate that inauguration in my heart to him,” Ugorji said.
According to the former Commissioner, the new Vigilante Officers need historical memory. “I come from a tradition of not forgetting our heroes, especially those we lose during tours of duty. Duru was one such hero and I call on the Governor to honour him in the name of all of us who ran towards danger when many ran from Imo State,” he requested.
