Most Crimes in Anambra, South-East Committed by Locals, Not Hausa-Fulani — Osita Obi

The Convener of the Recover Nigeria Project, Comrade Osita Obi, has asserted that the majority of crimes and insecurity plaguing Anambra State and the South-East are perpetrated by indigenous residents, not outsiders.

In an interview with Vanguard, Obi argued that communities are fully aware of the criminals operating among them but often choose to shield them, thereby enabling the spread of violence.

“There is no community in Anambra State, even in my own community, that doesn’t know the criminals among them. No community in Igboland does not know the criminals among them,” he said.

He accused certain government officials and security personnel of profiting from the insecurity, claiming their vested interests contribute to the persistence of the crisis.

“When you talk about insecurity, I am of the opinion that some government functionaries are benefitting from it. Some top—remember, I quote—some top police officials are benefiting from this insecurity,” Obi alleged.

The activist lamented that citizens who identify and report offenders are often discouraged when suspects are released soon after arrest.

“Suppose I expose the criminals in my community, and the person is taken to the police, but tomorrow he’s released — what happens to my safety?” he asked.

Obi maintained that insecurity in Anambra and the South-East cannot be resolved until traditional rulers, local government officials, and residents stop protecting known offenders and cooperate with security agencies.

“When we shield the criminals among us, what do we expect the government to do? Until we confront them honestly, insecurity will persist,” he said.

Rejecting claims that Hausa-Fulani groups are the primary drivers of insecurity in the region, Obi said the problem is largely internal.

“Most of the crimes committed here are by Igbo people — our brothers — not Hausa-Fulani,” he stressed. “I’m not saying they’re completely innocent, but Hausa-Fulani contribute only about 2 percent. The remaining 98 percent is done by our people.”

Obi called for truth, accountability, and community responsibility, stressing that peace can only return to the South-East when residents stop defending criminals and demand integrity from both citizens and security forces.

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