Security personnel in the South-East geo-political zone have in recent times become the target of attacks by suspected members of separatist and cult groups, nebulously described by the media as “gunmen.” Last week, over 50 vehicles were razed and buildings destroyed at the Imo State Police Command Headquarters. The Nigeria Correctional Service facility in Owerri, too, was attacked. 1,844 inmates were freed by the attackers. Less than 24 hours later, another police station in the state was attacked and burnt down.
Media reports firmly stated that some of the attacks were carried out by members of Eastern Security Network (ESN), paramilitary wing of the outlawed, secessionist Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). This year alone, more than 40 attacks have been targeted at security personnel, security facilities and security equipment in the Southeast. It is regrettable that intelligence information about possible attacks was ignored by governors and security agencies in the region. These attacks on security formations have already created fear in the minds of security agents. Security checkpoints have suddenly disappeared from roads in many states in the region, while many policemen operate in mufti. In a situation where policemen cannot carry out their duties for fear of being attacked, other criminals in the region are bound to have a field day.
Security agents and security facilities are the most visible symbols of the State and its authority. Targeting them for attack is a repudiation of the state’s sovereignty. It amounts to waging war against the State. The state is bound to respond to such a situation with all the weapons in its arsenal. Unfortunately, innocent persons could suffer collateral damage due to the outrageous, mindless and inconsiderate actions of others.
Partly in response to the situation, South eastern state governors recently launched a joint security outfit codenamed Bubeagu. In addition to tackling other security issues, this new outfit should speedily assist federal security agencies to restore order in the region and stop the secessionists in their tracks. To forestall violent groups in the region from advancing into insurgency, governors must stop politicising insecurity and demonstrate collective commitment to halting attacks on security formations and other Nigerian communities resident in the region.