By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has called for unison in condemning the criminal acts going on in the state, saying that they are nothing but organized criminals who live among the residents.

He made the call during a church service at the St Faith Anglican Cathedral, Awka to mark this year's Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

According to the governor, ?Security is a collective endeavour.

?If you see something, say something. It is not just about the ideology of idolatry that the criminals are perpetuating but about the gods that they worship. There is a connection between what they do and idolatry.

?This is an important service as a forerunner to the armed forces remembrance day celebration. It is an annual ritual, and 2025 is our year of collective triumph.?

Soludo further harped on the vital role that sober living plays in ensuring the safety and well-being of service members.

He noted that the service is not just an opportunity to remember the fallen heroes but a time to call for action, adding: ?This occasion reminds us of our own civic duty.?

The Governor's comments resonated with the audience, which included veterans, active-duty personnel, and local citizens

In his sermon, Ven. C.C Mgbemena, focused on faithfulness to the calling of Christ, emphasizing that perseverance will help the church achieve its calling.

He tasked the church on praying for the government to succeed and strive to become the bridge and the light, rather than the walls that divide

The Mass which marks an integral part of the day's event, was officiated by the Archbishop, Ecclesiastical Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Chibuzor Ibezim

The service was in honour and remembrance of the fallen heroes as well as to encourage other serving military personnel in protection and defence of the nation's territorial integrity.

Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, accompanied the Governor to the event.