Following an unconfirmed report that Fulani militias might attack Southeast states, Igbo apex group Ohanaeze Ndigbo on Wednesday called on Southeast Governors not to allow the killings happening in Benue State to occur in the Southeast, noting that the people will not forgive them if such attacks occur.

In a statement in Abakaliki, the National Deputy President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, noted that it would be an embarrassment if such killings occur after the threat, urging them to set up armed vigilante groups across ninety-five (95) local government areas in the zone.

He alleged that credible reports indicate that these armed groups have successfully infiltrated the Southeast in significant numbers and have placed Igbo communities under potential siege, noting that the setting up of vigilante groups will checkmate any of their moves.

He further stated that it is paramount that Southeast Governors take immediate, effective measures to thwart potential attacks against the Igbo populace in the weeks ahead, warning that the killings in Benue State should not be allowed to occur in the zone.

The statement read: “Residents of Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi States have expressed profound concern over the increasing, clandestine nighttime movements of these militants crossing into our territory from Benue and Kogi States, unchecked and unchallenged.

“The current climate is one of acute peril, and the time for complacency has long since passed. Southeast Governors must awaken from their slumber and cease their negligence.

“The unsettling reality we face reinforces our fears: the Southeast is on the brink of becoming a target for grave terrorist atrocities. This pattern of invasion must be addressed with the utmost urgency.

“If the governments at all levels continue to ignore these threats and maintain their conspiracies of silence, they will bear the consequences of the ensuing violence. Those in power must grasp the stark truth—we cannot afford to rely on ineffective security measures any longer.

“Let this serve as a clarion call to all Southeast Governors: ‘You are failing in your duty to protect the Igbo people.’ If these infiltrators succeed in replicating the massacres seen in Benue, Igbos will hold you fully accountable for your inaction.

“The Igbo people will not only seek retribution but will ensure that those responsible for the safety of our communities experience the rightful wrath of the populace.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands the immediate establishment of Armed Vigilante Groups across all 95 local government areas in the Southeast. Failure to heed this imperative will result in a steadfast backlash from the Igbo people.

“Any Governor who neglects to implement adequate security measures—both formal and informal—will be deemed responsible for any atrocities that occur. This negligence will be met with unyielding indignation at the ballot box, as the Igbo population seeks accountability.

“We implore our people to unify against any suspicious activities that threaten our security. We must proactively establish robust local vigilante networks to protect our communities from the threats posed by armed groups lurking within our forests.

“It is no longer feasible to rely solely on assurances from the government for our safety. The responsibility to defend and secure our people lies squarely upon our shoulders.

“Arise, O Compatriots! Self-defense is not merely an option; it is an essential duty for our collective preservation and survival,” he declared.