The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has raised alarm bells regarding the escalating insecurity in the Southeastern states of Nigeria. In a recent statement, the group expressed its deep dissatisfaction with the silence of political leaders, particularly the Governors in the region, amidst a wave of violence that has claimed over 300 lives in just the first quarter of 2025. The organization is warning that if the situation remains unaddressed, it may appeal to President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo cites a troubling trend of violence, which they believe is primarily being perpetuated by Fulani herdsmen. The group characterized the inaction of the Southeast Governors as a tacit acceptance of the ongoing violence and a clear failure of governance. Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stated that immediate and decisive action is critical to curb the killings and restore order.
The organization has issued a stern ultimatum: Governors are given 30 days to take meaningful action or face intervention from the federal government under Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, which permits the declaration of a state of emergency in regions deemed unable to maintain law and order. The focus is particularly aimed at states where Governors appear inactive or ineffective in protecting their constituents.
Key areas such as Ahuamufu and Okigwe in Enugu and Imo states, Nkalaaha in Ebonyi State, Uturu in Abia State, and Umunze in Anambra State have been severely affected by these attacks. Ohanaeze's statement condemns the apparent passivity towards these aggressions, highlighting it as a stark failure of leadership.
There is a pressing concern for the safety of farmers, many of whom have been barred from accessing their lands, jeopardizing food security throughout the region. The growing sense of fear among residents has even led families to forgo returning home for the upcoming Easter celebrations.
Furthermore, the organization also pointed to the detrimental effects of insecurity on the Southeast's economy, warning that the region is quickly losing its attractiveness to investors due to these escalating conditions. If political leaders continue to remain passive, the future economic prospects of the Southeast could be severely compromised.
In a clear message to the Governors, Ohanaeze Ndigbo insisted that they must expel the so-called killer herdsmen from the region within the stipulated 30 days or face significant repercussions. The organization urges its leaders to confront this violence with the seriousness and urgency it demands.
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