UMUAHIA — Former Chief of General Staff, Gen. Ike Omar Sanda Nwachukwu (retd.), has called for an intelligence-driven approach to tackling insecurity in the South-East, stressing that lasting peace can only be achieved through trust, inclusive governance, economic development and stronger regional collaboration.
Speaking at the South-East Regional Security Summit held in Umuahia on Thursday, Nwachukwu said security should not be viewed merely as the absence of violence but as the presence of justice, opportunity, public trust and legitimate authority.
According to him, the region’s security challenges, including kidnappings, attacks on public institutions and violent crimes, are symptoms of a deeper erosion of confidence in institutions, leadership and the future.
He noted that while military force remains essential, it cannot by itself resolve political, economic or social problems.
“Armies create the space for peace. Societies must then build the peace,” he said.
