Why insecurity persists in South East — Bianca Ojukwu
By Dennis Agbo
Iyom Bianca Ojukwu, wife of the late Biafra leader and former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, has shed light on the reasons behind the persistent insecurity in the South East region of Nigeria.
Mrs. Ojukwu stated that while insecurity is widespread across the country, it has become particularly acute in the South East due to opportunistic criminal elements exploiting the separatist agitation to commit heinous acts. She noted that the ongoing killings and kidnappings have led to the annexation of community farmlands by armed herdsmen and other dangerous invaders.
Bianca made these remarks during the annual convention of the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) in Charlotte, North Carolina, a veteran organization comprising American citizens of Igbo descent who have served or are currently serving in various branches of the U.S. military.
The 2024 conference focused on the pressing issues facing Igbo homeland, particularly the insecurity crisis in several South Eastern states. It brought together stakeholders, including serving military personnel, veterans, industry leaders, and representatives from the North Carolina Governor’s office, to engage in dialogue and strategize for the advancement of Igboland.
As a Special Guest of Honour, Bianca emphasized the importance of the Igbo diaspora maintaining and defending their core values, identity, and heritage. She acknowledged the diaspora’s concerns regarding the security situation in the South East and urged the five state governors to collaborate in addressing the issue.
“The incessant killings and kidnappings, along with the increasing annexation of community farmlands by armed herdsmen and other dangerous invaders, have severely impacted agricultural, economic, and social activities in many Igbo communities,” Bianca lamented. “Opportunistic criminals have seized upon the separatist agitation to commit these crimes, undermining the capabilities of security forces with their superior firepower.”
She reiterated calls for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, asserting that his freedom would lead to improvements in the security situation in the South East.
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