Protesters Demand Sustained Military Operation, Barracks In Imo Council

A coalition of concerned citizens under the banner Orsu & Friends & Rescue Alaigbo staged a protest at the National Assembly yesterday, urging the federal government to sustain ongoing military operations in Orsu local government area of Imo State and to establish a permanent military base in the troubled region.

The group’s convener, Chukwuka Ofoegbu, told reporters that the demonstration, themed “Finish the Job”, was aimed at highlighting the plight of communities in Orsu and neighbouring LGAs that have endured years of violence linked to Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)/Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Ofoegbu explained that the militants had turned Udeke Valley—later renamed “Mother Valley”—into a training ground since 2017, unbeknownst to community leaders. He lamented that residents initially tolerated their presence due to fears of external threats, only to later discover that the same group was behind kidnappings, extortion, sexual violence and widespread destruction.

“Our farms were littered with improvised explosive devices. Many of our people died trying to access their lands. Churches, markets and even communication masts were looted. Life came to a standstill,” he said.

While commending the Joint Task Force (JTF) led by the 34 Artillery Brigade and supported by other security agencies for recent successes, Ofoegbu warned that halting the operation prematurely would allow the militants to regroup. He appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Service Chiefs to extend the offensive for at least nine months and consider establishing a permanent military base in the valley.

Another protester, Casmir Ezeifedi, reinforced the call, stressing that past mistakes must not be repeated. “In 2014, the army dislodged them but left too quickly. They rebuilt and became stronger. Over 1,500 IEDs have been recovered so far. If the military stays put, they cannot wait it out,” he said.

Ezeifedi described the valley’s terrain as a strategic hideout and urged closer cooperation between security forces in Imo and Anambra States. He also supported turning the valley into a permanent barracks, noting its suitability for military training.

Both conveners emphasised that communities had been displaced for five years and pleaded for federal intervention to ensure lasting peace. “Every life saved is worth the effort,” Ezeifedi added.