Most criminal activities in South-East perpetrated by indigenes, says Recover Nigeria Convener

Most criminal activities in South-East perpetrated by indigenes, says Recover Nigeria Convener

The Convener of the Recover Nigeria Project, Comrade Osita Obi, has claimed that the majority of criminal activities in Anambra State and across the South-East are committed by indigenes rather than outsiders, insisting that local communities are well aware of the offenders living among them.

Speaking in an interview with Vanguard, Obi alleged that insecurity in the region has persisted partly because some government officials, community leaders, and security operatives allegedly benefit from the situation.

“When you talk about insecurity, I am of the opinion that some government functionaries are benefitting from it. Some top police officials are also benefitting,” he said. “There is no community in Anambra State, even in my own community, that doesn’t know the criminals among them. No community in Igboland can claim ignorance.”

The activist condemned the practice of shielding known criminals at the community level, saying it undermines security efforts and emboldens offenders. He warned that the reluctance of residents to expose wrongdoers allows crime to flourish.

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“When we decide to shield the criminals among us, what will government do? Until we identify and hand over those responsible, the problem will persist,” he said.

Obi also expressed concern over reports that some suspects handed over to the police are released shortly afterward, endangering those who provided information. “Suppose I expose a criminal and the police release him the next day — what happens to my safety?” he asked.

He urged traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and residents to work together to expose criminal elements, stressing that true security can only be achieved through collective responsibility and honesty.

Obi dismissed claims that insecurity in the South-East is largely caused by non-indigenes, arguing that most crimes in the region are committed by locals.

“Most of the criminal acts committed here are done by Igbo people — our brothers, not Hausa-Fulani,” he said. “I am not completely exonerating them, but Hausa-Fulani contribute only about 2 per cent. The remaining 98 per cent is done by our people.”

He further accused some security operatives of complicity, saying their actions have contributed to worsening insecurity in the region.

Obi called for truth-telling, accountability, and community cooperation as essential steps toward restoring peace in Anambra State and the wider South-East.

Most criminal activities in South-East perpetrated by indigenes, says Recover Nigeria Convener