Dislodged Terrorists Relocating To South-East, South-South — Security Sources

Security and intelligence sources have raised concerns over the movement of terrorists displaced from northern Nigeria into parts of the South-East and South-South regions following sustained military operations in traditional insurgent strongholds.

According to multiple security sources, many of the insurgents fleeing pressure in Zamfara and Sokoto states are using interconnected forest corridors and riverine routes that pass through Niger and Kogi states before entering southern parts of the country.

The sources disclosed that some of the groups have reportedly moved through Anambra State into neighbouring Abia and Imo states, while others have extended their activities toward parts of the South-South region.

A senior security source said the terrorists have increasingly relied on remote forest routes and cattle paths to avoid detection by security forces.

The source explained that the migration pattern reflects growing pressure from military operations targeting insurgent camps across northern Nigeria.

A retired military officer familiar with the security situation described Kogi State as a strategic convergence point in the movement of terrorist groups.

According to him, the state serves as a major link between northern forest networks and routes leading toward the South-East and South-West.

He noted that the Niger River corridor, particularly in eastern Kogi, provides access routes into Anambra State and other neighbouring areas.

The officer added that forest networks connecting Kogi, Kwara, Ekiti, Ondo and Oyo states have become important transit routes for armed groups seeking to evade military offensives.

A Department of State Services source also confirmed that security agencies have identified forest corridors linking several states, including Niger, Kogi, Kwara, Ekiti, Ondo and Edo.

The source alleged that some criminal groups have established operational bases within remote forested locations where they organise logistics and movements.

Security findings further indicate that dense forests and difficult terrain across parts of Anambra, Imo and Abia states provide natural cover that could potentially be exploited by fleeing insurgents.

Authorities have also expressed concerns about possible infiltration into parts of Edo State through routes connected to Ondo forests.

The concerns intensified after the Edo State Government ordered the temporary closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of potential kidnapping threats.

Security officials believe that some terrorist groups are shifting tactics by focusing on mass abductions as a means of exerting pressure on authorities.

According to intelligence sources, the strategy may involve using abducted victims as bargaining tools to seek concessions or the release of detained associates.

Despite the warnings, security agencies in several South-East states insist that they remain vigilant and are actively monitoring developments.

A senior military officer attached to security operations in Anambra State argued that the region remains difficult terrain for northern terrorist groups because of ongoing security operations and resistance from local armed groups.

The officer maintained that the South-East is not an easy environment for external insurgent organisations to establish permanent bases.

Meanwhile, the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, confirmed that it has encountered armed criminal elements in forests, riverbanks and remote communities across the state.

However, the outfit stated that it has not received intelligence specifically confirming the migration of northern terrorists into the state.

Its spokesperson, Nweke Nweke, said security personnel have intensified surveillance through intelligence gathering, checkpoints and joint operations involving federal security agencies.

In Imo State, the Police Command dismissed claims that terrorists have established camps within the state.

Police spokesperson Henry Okoye stated that ongoing security operations and forest raids have significantly reduced criminal activities and prevented the establishment of terrorist enclaves.

He acknowledged that some kidnapping incidents have occurred but maintained that security agencies are actively addressing the threats.

Similarly, the Abia State Government said it has no evidence of terrorist camps operating within the state.

Security Adviser to Governor Alex Otti, MacDonald Uba, said the state has put measures in place to prevent infiltration and protect residents.

The Abia State Police Command also reiterated its commitment to maintaining security through collaboration with other agencies, routine patrols and intelligence-led operations.

As concerns over the movement of armed groups continue, security experts have stressed the importance of stronger inter-state cooperation, intelligence sharing and sustained military pressure to prevent the spread of terrorist activities into new regions.

Authorities across affected states have assured residents that proactive measures are being implemented to safeguard lives and property while monitoring any emerging threats.