Communities across parts of Anambra and Imo states have seen a notable return of residents this festive season after years of violence and displacement attributed to unknown gunmen. Villages in Ihiala, Aguata and Orumba areas of Anambra and Orlu and Oguta areas of Imo welcomed families back for Christmas and New Year festivities as normal life gradually resumes.
Ndigbo return home
Residents and community leaders described a dramatic change from earlier years when towns were largely deserted, properties were destroyed and livelihoods were disrupted. Social gatherings, town meetings and philanthropic events that had been suspended because of insecurity were held again as people reclaimed their homes and public spaces.
“Gradually, the area is calming down, but there are still pockets of criminal activities here and there,” a former local NBA chairman from Ihiala said, thanking young people who led efforts to reclaim their towns. Business leaders also noted that some roads previously avoided now feel safer to drive, and families were able to hold burials without having to pay illegal tolls demanded by criminals.
Local officials and residents paid tribute to a combined effort by community youths and security forces. A letter from leaders in Ihiala Local Government Area praised the professionalism and conduct of troops from the 302 Artillery Regiment, saying soldiers had responded swiftly to distress calls and built trust with civilians through respectful engagement.
“Your troops have stood firm in the face of danger, responding swiftly to distress calls, confronting threats and maintaining calm even in the most challenging situations,” the letter read, thanking the army for helping to restore security and prompting many displaced residents to return home.
In Imo State, the community of Umuokwu Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area celebrated its own recovery after nearly four years of instability. The community honoured Inspector Vincent Chika Okebata, a police officer from the area, for leading operations that helped drive out criminals and restore confidence.
Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu, the House of Representatives member for the federal constituency, recounted how residents fled and how a small group of committed security personnel and local leaders stepped in. He described the moment as a turning point when the officer agreed to return and operate from the community, supported by local and state authorities.
The Umuokwu Izombe Development Association conferred the title Dike Udo on Inspector Okebata during the 2025 Umuokwu Day Celebration. Speakers at the event urged unity and commended state authorities, including Governor Hope Uzodimma, for decisive action that aided the community’s recovery. They also appealed for compensation for victims of past attacks, notably the October 2021 violence that burned more than 150 houses in three communities.
While residents welcomed the return of peace, many cautioned that the gains must be consolidated. Community leaders emphasised the need for sustained security patrols, improved intelligence and continued cooperation between security agencies and local youths to prevent a revival of criminal activity.
As families gather for the holidays, the return of social life to previously deserted towns is a sign of resilience and a reminder that rebuilding will require ongoing commitment from both authorities and citizens. For now, displaced residents are enjoying a rare opportunity to celebrate at home and to begin repairing the social and economic fabric that years of unrest had frayed.
Key Takeaways:
- Ndigbo return home as security improves in Anambra and Imo states after years of attacks.
- Local youths, the Nigerian Army and police credited for reclaiming towns previously occupied by unknown gunmen.
- Communities hold celebrations, honour brave officers and call for compensation for past victims.
