Ohanaeze Ndigbo has raised concerns over intelligence reports suggesting that suspected northern bandits may be planning to move into the South-East during the festive season, urging the Federal Government and governors in the region to act swiftly.
The caution was issued in a joint statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and Chief Chinenyeze Ohi, the organisation’s National Spokesman.
Part of the statement read: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo issues this urgent and critical alert to the Federal Government and the Governors of the Southeast states: credible intelligence suggests a potential shift in the operational theatre of Northern ISWAP bandits and Boko Haram terrorists.
“The escalating violence and heightened tensions in the North Central region, particularly in Kwara, Niger, Benue, and Kogi states, where the Nigerian Military is currently engaged, indicate a possible strategic relocation by these terrorist groups.
“The Southeast and South-South regions, historically perceived as havens for illicit activities, are therefore vulnerable. The Southeast, in this context, risks becoming a safe haven for these northern elements.”
The apex Igbo body noted that security conditions in the region have improved significantly compared to the high levels of violence recorded between 2019 and mid-2025.
It commended President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar and the South-East governors for deploying joint security operations that helped stabilise restive communities.
According to the organisation, the coordinated efforts of the military and other security agencies have drastically reduced incidents of kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes in the zone.
Ohanaeze added that many displaced residents have begun returning to their homes in anticipation of the Yuletide.
It also called for the revitalisation of community vigilante groups across all 95 local government areas in the South-East, stressing the need to give special attention to border communities in Enugu, Ebonyi and Anambra states.
The group warned that any delay by state governments could worsen the situation, pointing to reports of an unusual influx of Bajaj motorcycles into the region—models allegedly used by criminal networks in the North.
Ohanaeze appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activity to security agencies.
It further urged governors to fully enforce the Federal Government’s ban on open grazing effective December 2025, insisting that sanctions must be imposed on violators.
The organisation also encouraged state governments to engage herders’ unions to ensure compliance with land-use and security regulations.
Additionally, Ohanaeze asked the Federal Government and the National Assembly to consider measures that would enhance citizens’ protection, especially during religious programmes.