Insecurity across many communities in Nigeria’s South-East region has worsened, disrupting daily life and traditional ceremonies such as weddings and burials. This escalation began after the arrest of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by the Department of State Services (DSS).
The situation deteriorated with IPOB’s declaration of a weekly sit-at-home order on Mondays, enforced through violence. Residents were forced to stay indoors under threat, and those who disobeyed faced severe consequences, including being shot or injured. Several police stations across the region were attacked and burned, reportedly as part of IPOB’s demand for Kanu’s release.
As security forces attempted to counter these actions, the agitators moved their operations into forested areas, establishing hideouts and launching attacks from these locations. This marked the emergence of the “unknown gunmen,” whose activities have terrorized communities and turned forests into detention camps for kidnapping victims.
In Anambra State, communities like Amichi, Ukpor, Orsumoghu, and Iseke have become notorious for the activities of armed groups. The 35-kilometer road stretch from Amichi to Iseke is now a no-go area for civilians and security operatives alike. Police checkpoints that once dotted the route have been abandoned, leaving the area under the control of armed groups.
In Abia State, the Umunneochi axis harbors one of the most feared insurgent camps. Despite a nearby military checkpoint, kidnappers reportedly operate with impunity, even passing through security checkpoints with their victims. Neighboring Imo State faces similar challenges, with criminals launching attacks from the Okigwe/Ihube forests bordering Abia.
Although initiatives like Operation Flush have reduced incidents in some areas, such as the Lokpanta axis, sporadic attacks continue along borders and black spots like the Awgu/Isiagu boundary between Abia and Enugu states. These incidents persist despite the presence of multiple security checkpoints.
Former Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Aderemi Adeoye, attributed the difficulty in curbing the insurgency to the nature of guerilla warfare, which differs from conventional battles. He stated that the Federal Government has avoided using airstrikes to prevent collateral damage to innocent civilians. However, the insurgents have taken advantage of the natural terrain and forests, using landmines and advanced weaponry such as rocket-propelled grenade launchers.
Residents like Mr. Cletus Nwakire from Lilu in Anambra expressed frustration over the inability of security forces to eliminate the insurgents. Nwakire, who has avoided his community for three years due to insecurity, questioned why the military has not been able to dislodge the criminals, suggesting the situation might be deliberate.
The Coalition of South-East Youth Leaders (COSEYL) has urged security agencies to adopt aerial surveillance using drones and helicopters to identify and neutralize the insurgents. The group’s President-General, Comrade Goodluck Ibem, emphasized the need for intelligence-led operations to tackle the problem effectively.
Governors in the region have launched targeted security measures, with some success. In Abia State, Governor Alex Otti’s Operation Flush has significantly reduced crime, though occasional incidents still occur. Cross-border criminals operating from neighboring states, particularly around the Imo River corridor, remain a challenge.
Despite efforts to reclaim these areas, communities remain unsafe, and socio-economic activities have been paralyzed. Residents are hopeful for a more coordinated security strategy that includes advanced technology and consistent military presence to restore peace and stability. Until then, fear and uncertainty continue to dominate the South-East region.
