Ohanaeze Ndigbo has warned the federal government and governors of the south-east states to prevent suspected northern bandits from relocating to the region during the festive season.
The warning was contained in a join statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide nd Chief Chinenyeze Ohi, National Spokesman of the organisation.
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 sociocultural organisation said insecurity in the south-east has significantly reduced compared to the level witnessed between 2019 and mid-2025.
The group commended President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser; Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Defence; Badaru Abubakar and the south-east governors for deploying joint security forces that helped restore peace in affected communities.
Ohanaeze said the efforts of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies have contributed to the decreasing presence of kidnappers, bandits and other violent groups in the region.
The organisation said displaced residents are gradually returning to their homes as the Yuletide approaches.
Ohanaeze called for the immediate activation of community vigilante groups in all 95 local government areas of the south-east.
The organisation said border communities in Enugu, Ebonyi and Anambra must be prioritised to consolidate ongoing peace efforts.
Ohanaeze said failure by governors to act promptly could amount to neglect of responsibility, adding that there are reports indicating an unusual influx of Bajaj motorcycles into the south-east, adding that similar models have been used by criminal groups in northern states.
Ohanaeze urged residents to remain observant and report any security threats to the authorities.
The group also asked governors to fully implement the federal government’s ban on open grazing from December 2025, with penalties for offenders.
Ohanaeze encouraged state governments to engage with herder associations to ensure compliance with security and land-use regulations.
The organisation further urged the federal government and the national assembly to consider proposals for improved self-protection measures for citizens, particularly during religious gatherings.
