Insecurity: 273 Killed During Okigwe Insurgency – Imo Committee

The Chairman of the Imo State Government’s Fact-Finding and Implementation Committee on communities affected by insecurity in Okigwe zone, Bishop Samuel Uche, has said 273 people were confirmed killed.

Bishop Uche disclosed this on Saturday while presenting the committee’s report to Governor Hope Uzodimma in Owerri.

Governor Uzodimma had inaugurated the committee to assess and recommend measures for rehabilitating communities in Okigwe, Onuimo, Ihitte Uboma, and Ehime Mbano LGAs affected by insecurity.

Between 2020 and 2025, parts of Imo State witnessed insurgency and insecurity marked by killings, kidnapping, armed robbery, arson, and other violent crimes.

Describing the violence as “unreasonable madness,” Bishop Uche said at least 273 lives were lost in the affected areas. The Emeritus Prelate of the Methodist Church, who was once a kidnapping victim in Okigwe zone, added that the report contained graphic accounts of avoidable deaths and widespread destruction of property worth billions of naira.

He said the committee provided a detailed tabular breakdown of damage to public infrastructure and private property, alongside recommendations to address it. Uche maintained that the report reflected residents’ true experiences and that the findings were authentic and reliable.

According to him, communities in the zone appreciated the state government for setting up the committee, describing the move as responsive and compassionate. They also commended local government chairmen in the affected areas for cooperating in gathering first-hand information and urged the state government to implement the recommendations immediately.

Responding, Governor Uzodimma said the government would promptly implement the committee’s recommendations. He disclosed that plans were underway to rebuild critical infrastructure, including police stations, hospitals, health centres, and primary schools.

He added that local government administrative offices would be reconstructed with state government support. The projects, he said, would be executed in phases, prioritising those that can be funded immediately.

Uzodimma assured that the ultimate goal was to restore stability and reconnect the affected communities. He said the government would act through quick-impact projects aimed at restoring normalcy.

“We will give attention to infrastructure that guarantees urgent value for the people in a phased, comprehensive exercise,” the governor said.

He praised the committee for its dedication, noting that the assignment required courage and commitment.