The Association of Ngor Okpala Journalists has voiced alarm over the escalating insecurity in parts of Ngor Okpala Local Government Area, Imo State, especially around Sam Mbakwe Airport and the Umuowa‑Ihitte‑Umuhu‑Okpala axis on the Owerri‑Aba Expressway. Reports indicate that bandits and terrorists have taken control of the area, carrying out attacks on motorists, abductions and killings between 1 and 2 December 2025. A recent assault on the Advance Team of the Abia State Governor’s Office, which was en route to Imo Airport, was cited as a disturbing example of the growing terrorist threat.
The association noted that the surrounding bushes have become hideouts for the perpetrators, and community‑led combing exercises have uncovered several decomposing corpses and personal valuables of victims. Insecurity in Ngor Okpala has been a persistent problem, with a record of violent crimes over the past two years, including the murder of a woman on her farm, the slaughter of a pregnant woman near the airport, and the kidnapping of a Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria staff member. These incidents threaten commercial, economic, social and political activities, casting the locality as unsafe for residents and travelers alike.
Although a military checkpoint exists at Umuowa, near the airport, it has not deterred the bandits, who continue to operate with ease. The journalists’ association has called on the Divisional Police Officer, the military and other security agencies to take proactive action to apprehend the culprits and flush the criminals from the area. It also urges traditional rulers, religious and political leaders, and community members to remain vigilant and provide accurate information to assist security forces.
Given Ngor Okpala’s strategic location—hosting Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport and linking Abia, Rivers and Imo States—urgent and decisive action against the rising wave of banditry is essential. The Imo State Police Command has intervened, and the association commends this effort, but stresses that the crackdown must be sustained until the perpetrators are brought to justice. The situation underscores the need for enhanced security measures to protect residents, travelers and economic activities in the region.
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