As Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread insecurity across its six geopolitical zones, the South East has become a hotbed of violent conflict, agitation, and criminal activity. Among the five states in the region Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo State has, in the 2024/2025 period, emerged as the most insecure, plagued by targeted killings, attacks on government institutions, separatist violence, and general lawlessness.
Imo, once a relatively peaceful state known for its educational institutions and cultural vibrance, has in recent years spiraled into chaos. The state now frequently makes headlines for:
- Attacks on police stations and INEC offices
- Targeted assassinations of politicians and traditional rulers
- Abductions of civilians and public servants
- Arson and destruction of government property
- Enforced “sit-at-home” orders and clashes with security forces
Virtually every part of the state from Owerri to Orlu, Okigwe to Oguta has witnessed the growing wave of insecurity, forcing residents to live in constant fear.
Central to Imo’s deteriorating security situation is the growing influence of secessionist groups, particularly factions of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). While IPOB leadership has at times denied involvement in violent acts, splinter cells and radical enforcers have carried out deadly operations under the guise of Biafra agitation.
The enforcement of illegal sit-at-home orders particularly on Mondays and dates associated with IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu’s court appearances has crippled commercial activities in key urban areas. Those who defy these orders risk violent attacks, as several vehicles, businesses, and even individuals have been targeted for allegedly breaking the directive.
Imo has suffered more attacks on government institutions than any other South East state. Police stations, correctional facilities, military checkpoints, and INEC offices have been frequent targets. Notably, in 2021 and again in 2023, the Owerri Correctional Centre and several local government secretariats were attacked, leading to the escape of inmates and loss of sensitive materials.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Imo reported the destruction of offices and vehicles, affecting election preparedness and delivery. These incidents have severely undermined the democratic process and confidence in state authority.
The period between 2024 and 2025 has seen a rise in political violence in Imo State. Notable incidents include:
- The assassination of local government chairmen and traditional rulers accused of colluding with state or federal authorities.
- Coordinated attacks on campaign convoys during the build-up to the 2023 and subsequent 2024 elections.
- Kidnapping of politicians, community leaders, and religious figures, many of whom are later released after ransom payments or found dead.
These developments have discouraged political participation and weakened the leadership structure at the grassroots level.
Civilians in Imo are the worst hit. Marketplaces are deserted on sit-at-home days. Schools are intermittently closed due to safety fears. Many villages have been depopulated, especially in Orsu, Njaba, and parts of Ideato where clashes between security forces and armed groups have become routine.
Thousands have been displaced internally. Families mourn loved ones caught in crossfire or abducted in their own homes. The state’s economy especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), agriculture, and transport has taken a severe hit, driving more people into poverty.
Governor Hope Uzodimma, now in his second term, has consistently condemned the violence and has called for federal intervention. His administration has initiated several security operations, including collaboration with the military and police to flush out insurgents from forests and rural hideouts.
However, many residents have accused the government of heavy-handedness, arbitrary arrests, and the use of security forces to settle political scores. The Joint Task Force, although effective in neutralizing some criminal hideouts, has also been accused of human rights violations.
The situation has created a climate of mistrust between civilians and government, between security agencies and communities, and even among ethnic and political groups.
Several deep-seated issues continue to fuel insecurity in Imo:
- Marginalization and political discontent fueling separatist sentiments
- Unemployment and poverty, making youths vulnerable to recruitment by armed groups
- Weak judicial and law enforcement systems that fail to prosecute criminals or provide justice
- Lack of trust in government, due to perceptions of bias, corruption, and inefficiency
Resolving the insecurity in Imo State and by extension the South East requires a multi-dimensional approach:
- Political Dialogue: Genuine engagement with community leaders, youth groups, and even secessionist representatives to address grievances and forge peaceful resolutions.
- Security Reform: Shift from militarized policing to intelligence-based, community-led security models that respect human rights.
- Youth Empowerment: Large-scale employment, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support to divert young people from crime.
- Justice and Rule of Law: Transparent investigations and prosecutions of those involved in violence—whether state or non-state actors.
- Public Trust Building: The government must rebuild confidence through transparency, accountability, and equitable distribution of state resources.
Conclusion
Imo State stands today as the most volatile and insecure state in the South East. Its descent into violence is a reflection of deeper socio-political fractures that require urgent attention. Without a strategic and inclusive approach, the violence may further escalate, putting not only Imo but the entire region at risk.
For peace to return, the people, political elites, security agencies, and federal authorities must prioritize justice, dialogue, and the protection of lives over political gain. Imo can rise again but only through unity, fairness, and visionary leadership.
By: Godwin Offor
