The Southeast Stakeholders Summit on Peace and Security and Public Hearing on Human Rights Violations was convened in Enugu, Nigeria, on February 21 and 22, 2025.
The summit was organised by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) and Southeast-based Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).
It aimed to address the growing security concerns in the Southeast region, evaluate human rights violations, and foster collaborative solutions for peace and security.
The event brought together government representatives, security agencies, civil society organisations, religious leaders, affected communities, and the media.
The Special Guest, His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State, was represented by Barr. Osinachi Nnajieze, Special Adviser to the Governor on Legal Matters.
The summit was chaired by Dr. Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought. Unfortunately, despite being invited, the National Human Rights Commission and the Nigerian Police Force were absent.
This is particularly disappointing given the NHRC’s vital role in promoting and protecting human rights, as well as ensuring accountability.
Day One: February 21, 2025: Opening Ceremony
The event commenced with an opening remark by the summit chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi.
Goodwill Messages
Several dignitaries delivered goodwill messages, including the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Nigeria Army, Major General O.T. Olatoye, who was represented by Brig. Gen. B. S. Buhari, GOC 82 Division, Enugu; Sabastine Anyia, the 1st Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA); Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, President, NBA; the Attorney General/CJ of Enugu State represented by E.E. Juliana Inyiama; and Austin Onuoha, Executive Director, Peace in Southeast Project (PISEP), Abuja.
Army: Major Gen. O.T. Olatoye, who was represented by Brig. Gen. B. S. Buhari of the 82 Division, Enugu, acknowledged the presence of government and military representatives, emphasising the importance of collaboration in addressing security challenges. He expressed appreciation for the commitment of these representatives to national stability and highlighted the need for accountability, truth, and effective governance. The speech reinforced the idea that security is a shared responsibility and extends goodwill to all attendees, recognizing their efforts in promoting peace and development.
Nigerian Bar Association: Sebastien Anyia, the 1st Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Chairman of the Human Rights Institute, emphasised the urgency of addressing insecurity and human rights violations in the Southeast, highlighting that this is the first time key stakeholders—including government officials, lawyers, civil society organisations, and the public—are coming together to discuss these pressing issues.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Southeast governors in tackling insecurity, he urged them to do more, stressing that leadership demands courage, integrity, and selflessness.
He commended the NBA’s recent human rights initiatives, which have led to the reconciliation of families, the release of detainees, and increased legal assistance for the vulnerable.
He expressed hope that the summit would mark the beginning of a brighter future for the Southeast, quoting leaders like Chinua Achebe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Nnamdi Azikiwe to inspire collective responsibility in fostering peace, justice, and security in the region.
Also speaking, Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, President, NBA, criticised the federal government’s approach to handling the crisis, suggesting a lack of decisive, always acknowledging the severity of the problem but noting the absence of effective solutions.
The NBA President also touched on economic impacts, with people fearing to invest in or even travel to their hometowns due to insecurity. He expressed frustration over law enforcement’s passive response to criminal activities, emphasising how silence and fear have led to worsening conditions.
Attorney General/CJ of Enugu State: Represented by E.E. Juliana Inyiama, the Attorney General of Enugu State acknowledged the challenges posed by human rights violations, insecurity, and systemic issues while reaffirming the government’s commitment to addressing these concerns.
The CJ’s representative highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure peace and security through legal actions, including prosecuting criminals and supporting law enforcement agencies.
The CJ commended the event organisers for shedding light on these critical issues and stressed the role of lawyers, civil society organisations, and security agencies in upholding democracy and fundamental human rights.
Additionally, concerns about corruption within security agencies, excessive roadblocks, and human rights abuses by law enforcement officers were raised. The need for accountability, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law was emphasised, with a call for continued collaboration to create a safer and more just society.
The speech concluded with a reaffirmation of the Enugu State Government’s dedication to security reforms, human rights protection, and collective efforts to combat crime and injustice.
Police Service Commission (PSC): Ikechukwu Ani, representative of the Chairman, Police Service Commission (PSC) emphasised the importance of dignity, accountability, and ensuring that every individual, regardless of background, can live in peace and security.
The Police Service Commission expressed concern about misconduct by some security personnel, including corruption at roadblocks and the unlawful involvement of police officers in civil disputes for financial gain.
The Commission called for strict adherence to the rule of law and emphasised the need for police officers to focus on their primary responsibilities rather than interfering in matters meant for the courts. The Commission expressed a commitment to continue collaboration with civil society organisations and legal professionals to promote peace, security, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR): Amaka. P.Q. Uzodinma, Head of Peacebuilding, Zonal Office Southeast of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution IPCR, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, nongovernmental organisations, and local communities to address insecurity.
She emphasised that community involvement is as essential for effective security management, as locals are best positioned to identify threats. She called for synergy between stakeholders to ensure the summit leads to actionable solutions rather than mere discussions.
NGOs: Two leaders of nongovernmental organisations delivered goodwill messages. Austin Onuoha, Executive Director, Peace in Southeast Project (PISEP), Abuja recalled past incidents of insecurity and the role of communities in responding to threats.
He gave an example from 1997 when a market in the region took swift action to address a security breach.
He discusses land-related conflicts as a major driver of insecurity and corruption, stating that many security personnel are used as tools for personal vendettas rather than for maintaining law and order.
He criticised the police for being reactive rather than proactive and for intervening in civil matters for financial gain.
Onwoha questions the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in Nigeria, arguing that their primary concern is self-preservation rather than public safety.
He called for inclusive security measures that involve communities in their protection rather than relying solely on external law enforcement.
In his intervention, Monsignor. Prof. Obiora Ike, founder of the Catholic Institute of Development, Justice and Peace and Caritas (CIDJAP) Enugu acknowledged the contributions of other speakers and highlighted the connection between justice and peace, stating that peace is a fruit that grows from the tree of justice. “Without fairness and equity, lasting peace is impossible,” he said.
He questioned why certain groups, such as IPOB, are labelled as terrorists while others, like Boko Haram, have had political figures advocate for them. He stressed that insecurity is often fuelled by power struggles, corruption, and material interests. He concluded by calling for internal reconciliation, emphasising that many conflicts begin within individuals before manifesting outwardly.
Welcome Remarks
Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma, Executive Director of RULAAC, delivered welcome remarks, in which he highlighted the purpose of the summit as addressing escalating insecurity and human rights violations in the Southeast, and engaging diverse stakeholders—community leaders, security agencies, government officials, CSOs, and media—in finding solutions.
The objective also includes holding a public hearing where victims can share their experiences, promoting justice and accountability.
He said Enugu was chosen due to its relative security, attributing it to Governor Peter Mbah’s efforts, including the Command-and-Control Centre and Security Trust Fund (which raised ₦3 billion).
Nwanguma praised the NBA Leadership, particularly its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, who was for his integrity and willingness to partner with CSOs.
On the state of insecurity in the Southeast Once a peaceful region, the Southeast is now plagued by violence, destruction, and displacement.
Communities have been overrun by criminals, leading to killings, abductions, and lawlessness. Women, children, and religious leaders have been among the most affected.
Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and encouraged commitment to peace and security. Stakeholders have crucial roles in addressing security and human rights concerns in the Southeast, he said and enumerated the roles.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and legal professionals are expected to provide pro bono legal aid, while state Ministries of Justice should expedite prosecutions to ensure swift justice.
Security agencies must enforce laws while upholding human rights, and the media should report responsibly on these issues. Additionally, Governors were urged to collaborate on regional security strategies to enhance coordination and effectiveness.
In his opinion, security concerns in the region are escalating, with violent attacks on security personnel, including the burning of 22 police stations in Imo State. While state-led security initiatives, such as those in Anambra, are necessary, the RULAAC ED said they must remain lawful and ethical to maintain public trust. He contended that over-militarisation, like the presence of 21 checkpoints between Enugu and Anambra, does not address the socioeconomic roots of crime. Sustainable solutions should prioritize good governance, economic empowerment, and community engagement.
A comprehensive approach, tailored to the region’s unique challenges, is essential to balance security and human rights effectively.
Opening Address: The Governor of Enugu State, Mr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Special Guest, was represented by Barr. Osinachi Nnajieze. Governor Mbah acknowledged and appreciated the influence of Professor Chidi Odinkalu in shaping human rights institutions and commended the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) leadership.
He highlighted Enugu’s role as a model for the Southeast, emphasising its recent successes in reducing crime and improving security within 18 months. He further highlighted the interconnectedness of security, governance, human rights, and infrastructure, stressing Enugu’s pioneering efforts in enacting state electricity laws to support security technology, such as CCTV monitoring.
Barr. Osinachi Nnajieze stressed that addressing insecurity requires not only law enforcement but also economic empowerment, justice, and rule of law. Agreeing with a previous speaker, he emphasised the role of fairness in governance, pointing out that perceived injustice fuels agitation and unrest.
Governor Mbah announced the establishment of a state human rights commission to ensure inclusive governance, particularly for people with disabilities. He called for collaboration among Southeast governors in security and intelligence sharing, inspired by similar initiatives in the Southwest. The speech concluded with a warm welcome to Enugu, encouraging attendees to explore its hospitality, and officially declared the event open.
Keynote Address
Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu’s keynote address highlighted the deep-rooted security and governance challenges in Nigeria’s Southeast. He criticised the failures of state-backed security forces, pointing out that armed groups, organised crime, and inefficient law enforcement had created a volatile environment.
He described the rampant presence of illegal checkpoints—manned by both uniformed personnel and criminals—which exacerbated insecurity rather than reducing it. He argued that corruption within security agencies turned these checkpoints into extortion hubs rather than protective measures for citizens.
The keynote speaker also discussed the complex web of security actors in the region, ranging from state actors like the police and military to quasi-state actors such as vigilante groups, as well as non-state entities like IPOB and MASSOB.
Criminal networks, including kidnappers and arms dealers, further complicated the situation, making security solutions difficult to implement. Odinkalu underscored that no single authority—whether governors, traditional leaders, or federal agencies—could resolve the crisis alone, advocating for a more unified and strategic approach to tackling insecurity.
Ethnic and geopolitical factors also played a crucial role in shaping the region’s governance and security discourse. Odinkalu challenged the misconception that the Southeast was exclusively Igbo, emphasising its ethnic diversity and the extended Igbo identity in the South-South and beyond.
Additionally, he highlighted the role of cultism, secret societies, and organized crime in fuelling insecurity, particularly through the recruitment of young children and the prevalence of ritual killings and gang violence. These deep-seated criminal networks, he explained, further undermined governance and law enforcement efforts.
To address these challenges, Odinkalu called for urgent reforms, stronger regional cooperation, and a concerted effort to restore investor confidence. He urged Southeast and South-South governors to coordinate security strategies, while also emphasising the need for better collaboration between security agencies and judicial institutions.
Civil society, the private sector, and international partners also needed to play a role in driving economic and security reforms. Concluding his address, he warned that without decisive action and collective responsibility, the region’s economic and social progress would remain stagnant, leaving its future at risk.
Panel Discussions
Following the keynote address, a panel discussion ensued with Dr Sam Amadi as the moderator.
Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe, SAN, highlighted the pressing security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in the Southeast, stressing the need for urgent reforms, human rights protection, and community collaboration.
He emphasised the importance of documenting human rights violations and holding perpetrators accountable while advocating for public hearings to give victims a voice.
He also called for stronger legal mechanisms to ensure justice for affected communities. Additionally, he urged better cooperation between security agencies and civilians, insisting that security interventions should prioritise human rights and community trust.
Osigwe linked insecurity to economic hardship, noting that lack of opportunities drove many young people into crime. He warned against excessive militarization, arguing that it often intensified conflicts rather than resolving them.
Instead, he recommended long-term policies to tackle the root causes of insecurity. For sustainable security, he suggested strengthening community-police relations through regular dialogue, ensuring that security measures respect human rights and legal frameworks, and addressing the socio-economic drivers of crime instead of relying solely on military force.
Okechukwu Nwanguma, the Executive Director of RULAAC, expressed concern over the worsening insecurity in the Southeast and criticized the authorities for their lack of decisive action.
He compared the situation to a directionless ship, highlighting how people suffered while those in power failed to act. He observed that many wealthy individuals needed military escorts to visit their hometowns, while the cost of security had become too high for ordinary citizens.
He noted that fear prevented many from speaking out, emphasising that silence enabled injustice. He argued that security was a shared responsibility between the government, civil society, and communities and encouraged public participation in security and justice dialogues.
Retired Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ojukwu reflected on the security challenges in the Southeast, emphasising inefficiencies and corruption within law enforcement.
He noted that many officers prioritized personal gain over public safety, with illegal roadblocks serving as extortion points rather than security measures. Despite heavy militarization, insecurity remained a major issue, fuelled by poor governance, lack of coordination among Southeast states, and economic hardships.
He stressed that traditional institutions and civil society had a role to play in conflict resolution, as insecurity significantly affected businesses and daily life.
To address these challenges, Ojukwu recommended joint intelligence and security cooperation among states to enhance enforcement efforts.
He urged local leaders to engage more actively in security matters and called for police reforms to ensure accountability and community-focused strategies. He also emphasised the need for proper documentation of insecurity incidents to guide policy decisions. By implementing these measures, he believed that security in the region could be improved effectively.
Austin Onuoha agreed with other speakers that crime and insecurity were complex problems rooted in socio-political and economic factors. He pointed out that security went beyond law enforcement and required an understanding of underlying causes such as community disputes, land conflicts, and power struggles.
He highlighted failures in law enforcement and governance, noting that the police were often used for political and personal interests rather than crime prevention.
Many security personnel lacked proper training, and corruption within the security sector further fuelled criminal activities. As a result, people lived in constant fear, facing movement restrictions, extortion at checkpoints, and unlawful detentions, which disrupted daily life and hindered economic growth.
Onuoha recommended several solutions to address these security challenges. He emphasised the importance of community engagement, urging leaders to actively communicate with their people.
Security efforts, he suggested, should be community-driven, fostering cooperation between local groups and the government. He also stressed the need for transparency in handling security funds and law enforcement operations to build public trust. Ultimately, he called for a shift from reactive to proactive security measures, advocating for honest discussions and leadership accountability.
He believed that lasting peace could only be achieved through an inclusive approach where communities and authorities worked together.
Ms. Ngozi Nwosu discussed the worsening insecurity in the Southeast, emphasising its impact on women, children, and marginalized groups. She noted that movement restrictions, violence, and economic hardship had intensified, worsened by police misconduct and extortion.
To address these issues, she recommended regular town hall meetings to engage communities, stronger law enforcement with accountability measures, and efforts to prevent youth involvement in crime through education and job opportunities.
She also called for the establishment of shelters and crisis centres for survivors of violence, improved data collection, and better collaboration between civil society organizations and government agencies. She urged collective action from the government, civil society, and citizens to restore safety and justice in the region.
The panel made several key observations and recommendations. They suggested that long-term development planning, coordinated by the Southeast Development Commission, could enhance stability.
They highlighted that Nnamdi Kanu’s prolonged detention violated the rule of law and called for better security coordination by Southeast governors, modelled after the Southwest.
Concerns were raised about corruption, political interference in security matters, and the shrinking civic space, which weakened advocacy efforts. The emergence of state-backed security outfits also raised human rights concerns.
Panellists stressed the urgent need to protect vulnerable groups, including women, children, and persons with disabilities, while ensuring that security agencies adhered to legal protocols and respected human rights. Additionally, they noted that the Southeast lacked adequate representation by its governors in addressing these pressing security challenges.
Day Two: February 22, 2025: The State-By-State Overview Of Security, Human Rights And Civic Space In The South East
The second day began with remarks by Okechukwu Nwanguma (RULAAC Executive Director), and a brief review of the previous day’s deliberations by Dr. Sam Amadi who then invited representatives from Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states to make a presentation on the State-by-State Overview of Security, Human rights and Civic Space in the South East.
State Security Overviews
Abia State: An Overview of Insecurity and its Impact on Human Rights and Civic Space
The presentation provided an in-depth analysis of the rising insecurity in Abia State, emphasising its severe impact on human rights and civic space.
The findings, based on a 2024 research study for RULAAC, highlighted key patterns of violence across different communities. Ndiegoro faced state-sponsored violence and mass arrests, while Lekwesi Umuchieze suffered from persistent kidnappings and killings by Fulani herdsmen.
Owazza experienced environmental and economic devastation due to illegal oil refineries, and Obikabia witnessed military retaliation, resulting in extrajudicial killings and sexual violence.
The consequences of these crises extended beyond statistics, affecting families, children, and entire communities living in fear.
The presentation identified widespread human rights violations, particularly targeting vulnerable groups.
In Ndiegoro, law enforcement engaged in unlawful detentions and intimidation, while Lekwesi Umuchieze endured relentless attacks, including sexual violence. The situation in Owazza was worsened by environmental damage and economic hardships linked to illegal oil activities.
Meanwhile, military actions in Obikabia led to mass arrests, including minors, and severe cases of sexual violence. Women and girls in these communities faced widespread sexual violence, social stigma, and economic burdens due to the loss or imprisonment of male relatives.
Children’s education was disrupted, particularly in Obikabia, where WAEC candidates were unable to attend school. Persons with disabilities struggled to escape violent attacks and, in some cases, faced brutal military treatment.
The research also pointed to the shrinking civic space, where activists, journalists, and civil society organizations faced intimidation, arrests, and restrictions when attempting to expose human rights violations.
Government authorities imposed access restrictions on conflict areas, limiting humanitarian interventions and silencing accountability efforts. As a result, affected communities remained vulnerable, with little to no external support.
The continuous suppression of civic voices further deepened the security crisis, making it difficult to advocate for justice and reforms.
In response, the presentation called for urgent security reforms, including ending arbitrary arrests, police intimidation, and extortion, particularly in Obikabia.
It recommended holding security forces accountable for human rights abuses and implementing community-led security strategies.
To protect women, children, and persons with disabilities, it was suggested to strengthen legal protections for sexual violence survivors, provide trauma support services, and establish emergency response measures.
Additionally, ensuring freedom of speech, allowing human rights monitors access to affected areas, and creating independent oversight mechanisms were proposed as critical steps to safeguard civic space and promote accountability.
Anambra State: An Overview of Insecurity and its Impact on Human Rights and Civic Space
Anambra State witnessed relative peace in its capital and Nnewi North, which was previously troubled by criminal activities.
The liberation of these areas resulted from a combination of kinetic security operations, advocacy, and ICT-based security solutions. A local politician supported security efforts by equipping vigilance groups with patrol vehicles, walkie-talkies, and solar-powered streetlights with CCTV cameras.
Additionally, a central control room was set up to monitor security events in real-time, improving situational awareness and crime prevention. These measures significantly deterred crime, making it riskier for perpetrators to operate.
Despite these improvements, law enforcement in Anambra State continued to face challenges due to the underground nature of crime. Traditional policing methods, such as visible checkpoints and open patrols, proved ineffective against sophisticated criminal networks.
Security experts emphasised the need for advanced intelligence strategies to counter evolving threats. They pointed out that without proactive security interventions, criminals could easily evade detection and regroup.
To address these issues, CSOs in the state recommended the adoption of an embedded policing model.
This approach involved deploying undercover officers within communities to gather real-time intelligence and prevent crimes before they occurred. Strengthening collaboration between law enforcement and local communities was also advised to improve trust and crime reporting.
Furthermore, leveraging technology-driven intelligence would enhance proactive policing efforts, ensuring long-term security and stability in Anambra State.
Ebonyi State: An Overview of Insecurity in and its Impact on Human Rights and Civic Space
Ebonyi State, created in 1996 from parts of Enugu and Abia states, experienced persistent conflicts in nine out of its thirteen local government areas. These crises, some dating back to colonial times and lasting over a century, were primarily driven by land ownership and boundary disputes.
Reports indicated that political actors, local leaders, and other stakeholders played significant roles in fuelling these conflicts, which had devastating effects on citizens, particularly women, children, and the elderly. The scale of displacement, loss of life, and destruction of property remained undocumented, but the impact was evident across affected communities.
Anonymous sources highlighted that interference from political officeholders, security agents, and influential community leaders contributed to the persistence of these conflicts.
A major concern was the government’s insincerity in addressing the root causes, as well as the appointment of key conflict actors into political positions, which allegedly prolonged the crises. The lack of political will to enforce peace and the vested interests of those in power further complicated efforts to find lasting solutions.
Despite these challenges, past administrations attempted to resolve the conflicts through committees that investigated the disputes and produced white papers with recommendations.
However, implementation remained a major issue, as the proposed solutions were often not enforced. Observers emphasised the need for genuine government commitment, independent conflict resolution mechanisms, and strict enforcement of committee recommendations to bring lasting peace to Ebonyi State.
Enugu State: Overview of Security Situation and its Impact on Human Rights and Civic Space
Enugu State experienced notable improvements in security due to the state government’s strong stance against criminal activities.
The administration’s zero-tolerance approach, particularly towards kidnapping and violence related to the Monday sit-at-home order, led to a safer environment where high-profile events could be held without security concerns.
A key strategy involved demolishing buildings used as kidnapping hideouts, which compelled landlords to either report suspicious tenants or evict them. Additionally, incidents of community invasions by Fulani herdsmen significantly decreased.
Despite these improvements, security challenges persisted in several areas. Some local governments remained shut on Mondays due to the sit-at-home order, while kidnapping continued along certain roads. Communal clashes were also a pressing issue, often leading to loss of lives and property destruction.
Cases of violent disputes over land ownership and traditional leadership positions frequently escalated without adequate government intervention.
Notable conflicts occurred in Nkanu East, Ezeagu, Awgu, Igbo-Etiti, and Udi local government areas, among others.
Investigations revealed that land disputes and leadership tussles were the primary drivers of these conflicts.
For instance, a dispute over land sales in Akpakwume led to property destruction, while a longstanding boundary disagreement between Aku and Ikolo communities resulted in multiple deaths and disappearances.
In some cases, retaliatory attacks caused further devastation, as seen in the mass burials in Akpawfu and the clashes in Oyofo and Awha communities. The failure to resolve these disputes early often resulted in prolonged violence and significant economic losses for affected residents.
A major concern was the government’s passive response to early warning signs of potential conflicts. Many communities had raised alarms about brewing tensions, but authorities failed to act until violence erupted. Security agencies were often slow to intervene, allowing conflicts to escalate.
Additionally, the proliferation of small arms in rural areas fueled hostilities, making it easier for disputes to turn deadly. The lack of consistent government engagement left many communities vulnerable to repeated cycles of violence.
To address these issues, CSOs recommended that the state government take proactive steps in conflict resolution. Quick intervention in land disputes, clear demarcation of contested boundaries, and strict enforcement of security measures were suggested as ways to curb violence. Security agencies were urged to respond swiftly to complaints, while communities called for a stronger government presence to prevent further bloodshed.
The CSOs argued that addressing these concerns effectively would not only save lives but also restore confidence in governance and law enforcement across the state.
Imo State: An Overview of Insecurity and Its Impact On Human Rights And Civic Space
Imo State faced severe security challenges, including insurgency, violent crime, and human rights violations. Several local government areas, such as Okigwe, Orlu, Mbaitoli, Ideato North, and Orsu, became major hotspots for insecurity.
Orsu, in particular, was identified as a stronghold of IPOB and ESN, where the natural terrain provided cover for criminal activities. The situation led to widespread fear among residents, who experienced frequent kidnappings, armed robberies, and disappearances.
Although kidnapping was slightly reduced, many residents continued to avoid nighttime activities, marking a significant shift from Owerri’s former vibrant nightlife. Clashes between locals and cattle herders further contributed to the atmosphere of insecurity.
Young men in the state were often profiled based on their appearance, with individuals having tattoos, dreadlocks, or luxury vehicles being targeted by security operatives.
While phone searches by the police had reduced, unlawful detentions at Tiger Base remained a significant concern.
Reports suggested that those released from the facility refused to discuss their experiences, hinting at severe mistreatment. The Owerri Correctional Centre also recorded cases of sexual violence, with operatives allegedly ignoring complaints.
Additionally, land disputes were increasingly criminalised, leading to arbitrary arrests and prolonged detentions. The Anti-Kidnapping Unit at Tiger Base was implicated in human rights abuses, using investigations as a pretext for violations.
Gender-based violence response mechanisms in the state remained weak, with the designated referral centre, Deborah House, being non-operational. In the absence of government intervention, frontline responders had to fund temporary shelters for victims themselves. The Ministry of Women’s Affairs struggled to address these issues, raising concerns that trauma care services should be transferred to the Ministry of Health, which already provided medical support for survivors.
Meanwhile, civic space in the state continued to shrink, with critics of the government facing abductions and unlawful detention. Cases of forced disappearances were often carried out under the guise of police operations, targeting individuals who spoke out against the government.
To address the worsening security and human rights situation in Imo State, urgent security sector reforms were recommended. Authorities were urged to tackle police brutality, arbitrary detentions, and unlawful profiling while ensuring the protection of civic space.
The persecution of journalists, activists, and political critics needed to end to uphold democratic principles. Strengthening the response to gender-based violence by making safe houses functional and holding perpetrators accountable was also highlighted as a priority.
Furthermore, fostering community-led peace initiatives between residents and security agencies was emphasised as a means to rebuild trust and restore stability. Without immediate action, the prevailing climate of fear and repression would continue to threaten fundamental human rights and social order in the state.
Special Investigative Report
Investigative journalist Juliana Francis presented highlights of a Special Investigative report but appealed that a more comprehensive summary would be provided at a later time. One testimony was taken by a victim of a human rights violation (Anonymity requested).
The session finally ushered all participants into the question-and-answer session. A communique was delivered, critiqued and adopted.
Recommendations
Following extensive deliberations, the summit outlined key recommendations:
- Human Right Bureau: Set up a Human Right Bureau at the end of the summit and adopt a collaborative security framework.
- Structured Legal Framework: Establish a structured legal framework to oversee litigation efforts, with dedicated lawyers from the states handling legal proceedings.
A formal structure will be put in place to ensure accountability, including regular meetings to assess progress, escalate critical issues, and coordinate responses. Additionally, an advisory board comprising key stakeholders, including the NBA, RULAAC, and other CSO and institutions’ representatives to be appointed in liaison offices across different southeastern states, will be instituted to provide strategic guidance and oversight.
- Arms Control: Strengthen arms control measures to curb the illegal flow of weapons into the Southeast, ensuring stricter enforcement and monitoring of supply routes. Enhance border security and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to prevent the proliferation of arms and restrict access by criminal elements.
- Community Policing: Implement robust community policing strategies to improve trust between security agencies and local populations while ensuring respect for human rights.
- Civic Engagement and Awareness Campaigns: the public should be actively involved in discussions on security and human rights through sustained advocacy efforts.
- Strengthening the Southeast Governor’s Forum: this platform will serve as a mechanism for monitoring security activities in the region, pulling resources and strengthening the surveillance system in the region.
- Regulation Of State-Backed Security Outfits: government backed security groups such as Agunechemba, as well as special or tactical units of the police such as Rapid Response Squad in Anambra, Tiger Base in Imo State, and AntiKidnapping Unit in Anambra, etc. must operate within the confines of human rights and legal frameworks;
- Economic Empowerment of Police: There is a need for better pay system and economic empowerment of the police to humanize the police, to enhance morale and check corruption.
- Memorialisation: Immortalizing lives lost during the civil war, setting an agreed date to honour their memories, setting up workshops and conferences.
- Clandestine Detention Facilities: The continued existence of clandestine detention facilities and reports of forced disappearances necessitate urgent interventions to ensure due process and accountability by the judiciary.
Conclusion
The Southeast Stakeholders Summit on Peace and Security successfully provided a platform for dialogue on insecurity and human rights violations in the region. With over 500 participants, including policymakers, security experts, and civil society groups, the summit emphasised governance reforms, improved security coordination, and the enforcement of human rights principles.
The communique issued at the end of the summit outlined key strategies to ensure sustainable peace and security in the Southeast, urging swift action from government authorities.
