Subject: Addressing the Crisis of Extortion, Kidnapping, and Violence in the South-East
Your Excellency,
I write with a deep sense of urgency and profound concern over the worsening security crisis in the South-East region of Nigeria. The ongoing extortion, abductions, and extra-judicial killings have plunged the region into chaos, leaving millions of innocent citizens in fear. A recent investigation by the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has uncovered alarming facts: within just two months—December 2024 and January 2025—over N23 billion was extorted from Nigerians by state security forces and armed criminal groups. This report highlights the collapse of basic security, law enforcement, and human dignity in the region.
Military Extortion: N6.8 Billion Pocketed
Military personnel, deployed to maintain security in the South-East, have instead exploited road users by establishing over 800 roadblocks (300 direct and 500 indirect). These checkpoints have become extortion hubs, extracting N100,000 daily from travelers. In total, N6.8 billion was illegally pocketed over the last two months.
The Ogbaru Naval Base in Onitsha is a particularly egregious case. Checkpoints there reportedly extorted N1 million daily, totaling N600 million over the same period. These actions are in direct violation of the Armed Forces Act of 2004, which prescribes a 14-year prison sentence for military personnel engaged in extortion. Unfortunately, these violations have continued without any form of accountability.
Police Extortion: N15 Billion Stolen
The Nigeria Police Force has also contributed significantly to this crisis, operating 2,500 roadblocks and patrol teams across the South-East. The extortion activities of police personnel resulted in a staggering N15 billion being illegally obtained from motorists and other road users.
Imo State topped the list, with 700 police checkpoints generating N2.94 billion in two months. In addition, police barracks-based extortions such as bribes for bail and detention monetization added N3.5 billion to the illegal haul. These practices violate both the Criminal Code and Penal Code, which prescribe 3 to 14 years imprisonment for extortion offenses. Despite these clear legal provisions, law enforcement agencies continue to act with impunity.
Kidnapping and Ransom Payments: N1.2 Billion Extorted
Non-state armed groups, including counterfeit Biafra agitators, criminal gangs, and suspected Fulani herdsmen, have terrorized the region with rampant kidnappings. Over 100 victims were abducted between December 28, 2024, and January 18, 2025, with N600 million paid in ransoms during that period alone. Over the full two months, ransom payments totaled N1.2 billion.
In one heartbreaking case, a female banker was abducted and later killed despite her family paying a N25 million ransom. Other high-profile victims include a UK-based businessman and two Catholic nuns. These criminal activities have devastated families, leaving entire communities in fear of further attacks.
Casualties and Extra-Judicial Killings: 180 Civilians Dead
The report documents the deaths of 180 civilians in two months. 140 of these were killed by armed non-state actors, while 40 others were victims of extra-judicial killings by security forces and vigilante groups.
In Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, 45 civilians, including women and children, were brutally massacred between January 5 and 8, 2025. Similarly, vigilante groups in Ihiala, Anambra, killed eight civilians on January 28, 2025. These killings have further eroded public trust in both state and non-state security structures.
Mass Abductions by Security and Criminal Groups
Over 200 civilians have been abducted in the past two months, with 160 kidnapped by criminal gangs and 40 forcibly disappeared by security forces. Victims abducted by security personnel are often taken without legal justification, raising fears of extra-judicial executions.
In one incident, 40 passengers were abducted by Fulani herdsmen near Enugu-Ezike on January 13, 2025. Such incidents highlight the lawlessness on Nigeria’s highways and the urgent need for intervention.
The Urgent Need for Reform and Action
Your Excellency, this crisis is symptomatic of deeper failures in governance, accountability, and security management. The unchecked extortion, abductions, and killings have destabilized the South-East and undermined Nigeria’s development and national unity. Immediate and decisive action is required to restore law, order, and trust in public institutions.
I respectfully recommend the following measures:
- Dismantling of Illegal Checkpoints:
Direct the Inspector-General of Police and military commanders to immediately dismantle unauthorized roadblocks across the South-East. Officers and soldiers found guilty of extortion should be prosecuted. - Independent Security Audit:
Commission an independent investigation to audit security operations in the region. Identify and hold accountable those responsible for corruption, violence, and human rights abuses. - Community Policing and Intelligence:
Foster collaboration between security agencies and local communities to improve intelligence gathering and crime prevention. Empower trusted community leaders to play an active role in restoring security. - Victim Compensation and Support:
Establish a fund to provide financial compensation and psychological support to victims of extortion, abductions, and violence. - Security Sector Reform:
Implement comprehensive reforms within the military and police to prioritize ethics training, anti-corruption measures, and human rights compliance. Introduce independent oversight mechanisms to monitor these reforms.
The Path to Stability and Prosperity
The South-East region has immense potential. Its people are resourceful and industrious, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economy. However, this potential is being stifled by corruption, lawlessness, and violence.
Imagine a South-East where citizens can travel without fear of extortion or kidnapping. Imagine a Nigeria where security agencies serve the people with integrity and accountability. This vision is within reach if your administration demonstrates the political will to enact meaningful reforms.
Your Legacy and Nigeria’s Future
Your Excellency, this is a pivotal moment in your leadership. You have been entrusted with the hopes of millions of Nigerians who long for peace, security, and prosperity. History will judge your administration based on how you respond to this crisis.
I trust in your ability to rise to the occasion and lead Nigeria toward a brighter, more secure future. The time to act is now.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Sincerely,
Hon. Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
“Duruebube Uzii na Abosi”
Email. chimazuru65@gmail.com
Tel. 08072313955
Concerned Nigerian Citizen
Date: January 31, 2025
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