Security agencies have raised fresh concerns over reports that terrorists moving south from northern Nigeria may be seeking new hideouts following sustained military operations in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
According to intelligence and security sources, ongoing offensives by the military have forced many insurgents to abandon their strongholds.
As a result, some of the fighters are reportedly travelling through forests and river routes that connect northern and southern parts of the country.
Officials familiar with the development said the terrorists moving south are believed to be passing through Niger and Kogi states before entering parts of Anambra, Abia and Imo states.
Others are reportedly heading further south and west to avoid detection by security forces.
A senior security source said the displaced fighters often rely on remote forest paths, cattle routes and waterways to move unnoticed.
The source added that these routes make it easier for the groups to bypass security checkpoints and surveillance operations.
Why Security Agencies Are Worried
Security experts say the movement of insurgents into unfamiliar territories could create fresh security challenges for communities across southern Nigeria.
A retired military officer described Kogi State as a strategic transit point because of its location and access to multiple forest routes leading into different regions of the country.
“Kogi serves as a major intersection point,” the officer reportedly said. “From there, they can connect to routes leading to the South-East, South-West and South-South through forests and river channels.”
Another intelligence operative alleged that some terrorist groups have established movement corridors linking Kogi State with parts of Ekiti, Ondo and Edo states.
According to the source, these routes provide easier access to southern regions while helping the groups remain off major roads.
The reports of terrorists moving south have generated concern among residents and security stakeholders. Many fear that the relocation of insurgents could extend security threats to areas that have largely been spared from such activities.
However, security officials in some southern states have pushed back against the claims. Authorities in Imo and Abia states said there is currently no verified evidence of terrorist camps operating within their territories.
They also assured residents that surveillance and intelligence gathering remain ongoing.
Further details of the situation were contained in reports from security sources monitoring insurgent activities across the country.
Despite the concerns, security agencies insist that military operations against terrorists and bandits will continue.
The ongoing crackdown has already disrupted several criminal networks, forcing many fighters to flee their traditional strongholds.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, residents have been urged to stay alert and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
