By joshua 
By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City.
As efforts to curb the recent insecurity in Esanland continue, the Esan Solidarity Forum on Thursday launched the Esan Security Network code-named Atanakpa.
The event which took place in Ebhoyi Police Station in Uromi, Esan North East LGA, of Edo State, was the official unveiling of Esan Atanakpa Vigilante Group, equipment and logistics which includes operational vehicles and motorbikes.
In a statement by the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Okpere (retd) , said, “the launch of the Atanakpa Security Group is a specialized security organization aimed at curbing criminal activities in Esan remote areas in other to enhance economic activities in the region.
According to him, ” we the Esan People decided to come together to complement the state government in security issues in our land, by ensuring a safer dwelling environment for business and commerce; guarantee peace, security and general well-being of the people of Esanland.
“Atanakpa in Esan parlance is called “Tiger.” As an apex predator, is reputed for its fierce attack, agility and alertness hence Esan Atanakpa Vigilante Group would be saddled with the responsibility to carry out sundry patrols in all the nooks and crannies of the Senatorial district.
” We expect all those involved in the Security Network to work as one, it is not meant for witch-hunting anyone. We are not political, it is solely for the peace of the Esan People.
” We have been able to provide equipments and logistics which includes operational vehicles and motorbikes , with other security outfits.
He said, “the Esan Atanakpa Vigilante Group, will work hand in hand with Various Security Agents in the Senatorial District to ensure that peace is restore to the Esan People in their land.
Present at the historic event were Esan traditional rulers, past and present security officials of Esan origin, illustrious sons and daughters of Esanland.