Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has warned the South East governors the danger posed by Fulani militias and suspected terrorists, saying that they will hold the governors responsible, if anything similar to Benue State massacre happens in the zone.
Ohanaeze said a credible report indicated that the armed groups have successfully infiltrated the South East in significant numbers, placing the communities under potential siege.
The pan lgbo group stated that residents of Enugu, Anambra and Ebonyi states have expressed profound concern over the increasing, clandestine nighttime movements of these militants crossing into their territory from Benue and Kogi states, unchecked and unchallenged.
Ohanaeze, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted that the current climate is one of acute peril, and the time for complacency has long since passed.
“South East governors must awaken from their slumber and cease their negligence. It is paramount that they take immediate, effective measures to thwart potential attacks against the Igbo populace in the weeks ahead.
“The unsettling reality we face reinforces our fears: the Southeast is on the brink of becoming a target for grave terrorist atrocities. This pattern of invasion must be addressed with the utmost urgency. If the governments at all levels continue to ignore these threats and maintain their conspiracies of silence, they will bear the consequences of the ensuing violence. Those in power must grasp the stark truth—we cannot afford to rely on ineffective security measures any longer.
“Let this serve as a clarion call to all Southeast Governors: You are failing in your duty to protect the Igbo people. If these infiltrators succeed in replicating the massacres seen in Benue, Igbos will hold you fully accountable for your inaction.
“The Igbo people will not only seek retribution but will ensure that those responsible for the safety of our communities experience the rightful wrath of the populace.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands the immediate establishment of Armed Vigilante Groups across all 95 local government areas in the Southeast. Failure to heed this imperative will result in a steadfast backlash from the Igbo people. Any Governor who neglects to implement adequate security measures—both formal and informal—will be deemed responsible for any atrocities that occur.
“This negligence will be met with unyielding indignation at the ballot box, as the Igbo population seeks accountability. We implore our people to unify against any suspicious activities that threaten our security. We must proactively establish robust local vigilante networks to protect our communities from the threats posed by armed groups lurking within our forests.
“It is no longer feasible to rely solely on assurances from the government for our safety. The responsibility to defend and secure our people lies squarely upon our shoulders. Arise, O Compatriots! Self-defense is not merely an option; it is an essential duty for our collective preservation and survival,” the statement read.