The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has warned South-East state Governors, urging them to take decisive action against the rising insecurity in the region.
Failure to do so, the group warned, could compel it to petition Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in affected Southeastern states.
Ohanaeze expressed deep concern over the continued silence of political leaders especially the Governors amid escalating violence and widespread killings.
The group revealed that over 300 lives were lost in the first quarter of 2025 alone, attributing the majority of the attacks to Fulani herdsmen.
In a press statement signed by its Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze called on the Governors to urgently address the deteriorating security situation, warning that inaction could lead to a formal request for federal intervention.
The group issued a 30-day ultimatum, after which it would invoke Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution, seeking the declaration of a state of emergency in states where Governors are deemed ineffective in protecting lives and property.
Ohanaeze specifically highlighted regions hardest hit by the violence, including Ehamufu and Okigwe (Enugu and Imo States), Nkalaaha (Ebonyi State), Uturu (Abia State), and Umunze (Anambra State).
Describing the Governors’ response as lackadaisical, Ohanaeze condemned what it termed a gross failure of leadership and governance in the face of a mounting security crisis.
“There can be no further delays. It is completely unacceptable that our defenseless farmers are being prevented from accessing their lands, threatening food security for the entire region.
” The growing fear among our people, which has even kept families from returning home for the upcoming Easter celebrations, makes it clear that the situation has reached a critical point,” the statement read.
The organization also expressed deep concern over the detrimental impact of insecurity on the region’s economy, noting that many investors are becoming increasingly disillusioned by the deteriorating conditions.
Ohanaeze warned that the Southeast is rapidly losing its appeal as a viable economic hub and cautioned that continued inaction by political leaders could further jeopardize the region’s future.
The group issued a stern ultimatum to the Governors, demanding the expulsion of the so-called killer herdsmen from the region within 30 days or risk facing serious consequences.
They urged the Governors to respond with decisive and immediate action, confronting the escalating violence with the seriousness and urgency it demands.
In conclusion, the Igbo apex socio-cultural organization called on the Governors to rise to the challenge, demonstrating courage, strong leadership, and a firm commitment to restoring peace and security, emphasizing that the people of the Southeast are relying on them to act.
