Displaced Terrorists Moving into South-East, South-South – Security Sources

Displaced Terrorists Moving into South-East, South-South – Security Sources

ABUJA, NIGERIA – Fresh intelligence reports have raised concerns about the alleged movement of displaced terrorists and armed criminal groups from northern Nigeria into parts of the South-East and South-South, following intensified military operations against insurgents and bandits in the North-West.

Security and intelligence sources told reporters that sustained offensives by the Nigerian military in Zamfara, Sokoto, and other conflict-ridden states have significantly weakened several terrorist and bandit networks, forcing many fighters to abandon their traditional hideouts and seek refuge elsewhere.

According to the sources, some of the fleeing insurgents are reportedly exploiting extensive forest corridors and riverine routes stretching through Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Anambra, Abia, Imo, and parts of the South-West to evade security forces and establish new operational bases.

A senior security official disclosed that intelligence gathered by security agencies indicates that some of the terrorists may have already infiltrated communities in southern Nigeria.

“These terrorists started moving from Zamfara through forests and remote routes. Some may have found their way into states such as Imo, Abia and even parts of Ogun State,” the source said.

Security concerns have particularly focused on Kogi State, which experts describe as a strategic transit corridor connecting northern and southern Nigeria. A retired Army General familiar with counter-insurgency operations explained that the state’s geography, extensive forest networks, and access to the Niger River corridor make it an attractive route for fleeing insurgents.

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According to the retired officer, interconnected forests linking northern states with the South-East and South-West have become potential escape routes for armed groups seeking to evade military pressure. He noted that terrorists often move through cattle routes, remote bush paths, and difficult terrain that make detection by security agencies more challenging. Security analysts have also pointed to the vast forest networks connecting Zamfara, Niger, Benue, Kogi, Anambra, Ondo, and Ekiti states as areas requiring enhanced surveillance and intelligence gathering.

The growing concerns gained further attention following intelligence reports warning of a possible mass abduction targeting schools in Edo State. Acting on the security alert, the Edo State Government ordered the temporary closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area as a precautionary measure against potential attacks.

The affected institutions were identified as Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School. State authorities explained that the decision was based on intelligence indicating possible threats to students and staff, prompting enhanced security measures in the area. The development has reinforced concerns among security agencies that terrorist-linked groups may be seeking to expand their operations beyond their traditional areas of activity.

Intelligence sources have also warned of a possible shift in tactics by some terrorist groups, with increased focus on mass kidnappings and large-scale abductions. According to security operatives, such operations could be used to generate funds through ransom payments and potentially pressure authorities to release detained commanders and members of their networks.

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The warning comes against the backdrop of repeated cases of school abductions and mass kidnappings recorded across several parts of Nigeria in recent years. Security experts argue that criminal groups displaced by military operations often attempt to establish themselves in new territories where security pressure is perceived to be less intense.

Despite the intelligence reports, security agencies in the South-East have sought to reassure residents that there is currently no confirmed evidence of terrorist camps operating within the region. Officials in Anambra State said security operatives continue to conduct surveillance and intelligence-led operations across forests, border communities, and riverine areas to prevent any infiltration by criminal groups.

Similarly, the Imo State Police Command dismissed claims that terrorists or bandits have established operational bases within the state. Police authorities stated that continuous forest raids, intelligence gathering, and joint operations with other security agencies have significantly reduced criminal activities in the area.

Authorities in Abia State also maintained that they have not received intelligence confirming the presence of terrorist camps within the state. However, they emphasized that security agencies remain vigilant and prepared to respond swiftly to any emerging threat.

Security experts have called for stronger intelligence gathering, improved cooperation among security agencies, and increased surveillance across vulnerable forest corridors linking northern and southern Nigeria. They also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security authorities.

Analysts warn that while military operations have succeeded in disrupting several terrorist networks in northern Nigeria, the long-term challenge will be preventing displaced fighters from establishing new footholds elsewhere in the country. As security agencies continue to monitor developments, authorities have reassured Nigerians that proactive measures are being implemented to safeguard communities and prevent the spread of terrorist activities into new regions.

Displaced Terrorists Moving into South-East, South-South – Security Sources