The Convener of the Recover Nigeria Project, Comrade Osita Obi, has reiterated that the majority of criminal activities in Anambra State and the South-East are carried out by indigenes rather than outsiders.
Speaking during an interview with Vanguard, Obi argued that communities are fully aware of the criminals among them but often choose to shield them, enabling insecurity to thrive.
He further alleged that certain stakeholders, including some government officials and security operatives, benefit from the ongoing instability.
Obi stated: “There is no community in Anambra State or anywhere in Igboland that doesn’t know the criminals among them. When we decide to shield the criminals among us, what can the government do?”
He criticized the practice of protecting offenders, noting that it undermines the efforts of local authorities and security agencies to curb violence.
He also highlighted the risks faced by whistleblowers, pointing out that suspects handed over to the police are often released soon after, putting those who report crimes in danger.
“Suppose I expose the criminals in my community, and the person is taken to the police but released tomorrow—what happens to my security?” he asked.
While dismissing claims that Hausa-Fulani groups are primarily responsible for insecurity in the region, Obi placed overwhelming responsibility on local perpetrators.
“Most of the crimes committed here are by Igbo people—our brothers—not Hausa-Fulani. I’m not saying they’re completely innocent, but Hausa-Fulani contribute only about 2 percent; the remaining 98 percent is done by our people,” he stated.
He called for collective action involving traditional rulers, local government officials, and residents to expose offenders and ensure accountability.
Obi stressed that restoring peace in Anambra and the South-East depends on communities refusing to protect criminals and demanding integrity from both citizens and law enforcement agencies.