The prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has publicly acknowledged President Bola Tinubu's administration for significantly improving security conditions across Nigeria's Southeast region.
Security Improvements Recognized
In a statement released in Abakaliki on December 1, 2025, the Deputy President General of an Ohanaeze Ndigbo faction, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, specifically commended President Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of State for Defence Dr. Bello Matawalle, and Southeast governors for their collaborative security efforts.
The organization described the security enhancement as a direct result of timely and decisive interventions through Joint Security Forces operations led by the Nigerian Army. These operations have successfully displaced bandits, kidnappers, organ harvesters, and various violent non-state actors that previously terrorized local communities.
Peace Returns but Threats Loom
"We have observed, with gratitude, that peace is gradually being restored in villages and towns across the region," Isiguzoro stated. This improved security environment has enabled displaced citizens to return to their homes and rebuild their lives as the Christmas season approaches.
However, the organization issued a stark warning about emerging threats from northern terrorist groups. Ohanaeze expressed serious concerns about potential incursions by Northern ISWAP bandits and Boko Haram terrorists who might view the Southeast as a new operational area.
"The recent spike in violence, terrorist activities, and rising tensions in the North Central states of Kwara, Niger, Benue, and Kogi places our region squarely in their sights," Isiguzoro emphasized.
Call for Vigilante Expansion
In response to these potential threats, Ohanaeze has advocated for the immediate establishment of local vigilante groups across all 95 local council areas in the Southeast. The organization stressed that this measure is not merely proactive but essential for consolidating the recent peace gains in the region.
"As the Nigerian military continues to engage these elements in the North, intelligence suggests that the South-East and South-South regions may soon be viewed by these Northern bandits as their next refuge," Isiguzoro warned, urging both the Federal Government and Southeast governors to take immediate preventive action.
The organization called for tightened security operations to sustain the current positive momentum while preparing for potential security challenges that might emerge from other regions experiencing increased terrorist activities.
