By Jasmine Okogerie
A community-based organization, the Odimma Orsu Initiative (OOI), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian military to urgently establish a permanent military base in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State to end years of insecurity and violence.
While addressing a Press Conference on April 21, 2026, the group decried what it described as a six-year security crisis that has devastated Orsu LGA and displaced thousands of residents.
According to the group, the unrest has been linked to the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), with a stronghold allegedly located in the Udẹke Valley, popularly referred to as “Murder Valley” in Orsu Ihiteukwa.
The group stated that the valley has, over the years, served as a base for armed operations, citing its difficult terrain as a factor in its use by militants. Despite multiple military operations in the area, including joint security raids in 2021 and 2024, OOI noted that armed groups have repeatedly regrouped, prolonging instability.
Highlighting the humanitarian toll, the organization claimed that thousands of lives have been lost, including civilians, traditional rulers, and security personnel. It also reported widespread destruction of homes, markets, and public infrastructure such as police stations, schools, and health facilities.
The crisis, the group said, has forced many residents into prolonged displacement since 2021, with social and economic activities in Orsu largely crippled. Farming, trading, and other sources of livelihood have been severely affected, while families remain separated and many communities deserted.
While acknowledging recent improvements in security, the group warned that the situation remains fragile and requires sustained intervention to prevent further violence.
OOI therefore urged the federal government to intensify security operations and establish a “formidable and permanent” military base within the Udẹke Valley to eliminate what it described as the root of the crisis.
The group also called on the Imo State Government to launch a comprehensive reconstruction and resettlement programme, including rebuilding infrastructure and ensuring safe return of displaced residents
In addition, it appealed to the international community to support humanitarian efforts such as rehabilitation, trauma counseling, and rebuilding of affected communities.
The organization further urged members of IPOB/ESN to lay down their arms and embrace peaceful means of engagement, stressing that continued violence has only worsened the plight of the people.
It also called on the media to draw attention to the situation in Orsu, noting that the crisis has left an entire local government area effectively in exile within its own country.
The group concluded by emphasizing the need for urgent and decisive action to restore peace and enable displaced residents to return to their ancestral homes.