The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), the prominent socio-cultural organization for Igbo youth, has called for immediate justice following the tragic massacre in Orsu, Imo State. The OYC, after its National Working Committee meeting on January 18, 2025, condemned the killing of over 25 young individuals and families by criminal groups in the region. These acts of violence have been ongoing since the 2021 Owerri prison break.
The Council has demanded that Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State establish an independent Judicial Commission of Inquiry to thoroughly investigate the Orsu massacre and uncover the perpetrators of the violent activities that have plagued the state for the past four years. The OYC emphasized the urgency of this request, as these criminal elements continue to terrorize the region with arson, kidnappings, and other criminal acts.
Furthermore, the OYC criticized the handling of security in the Southeast by Governor Uzodimma, as well as Governors Peter Mba of Enugu and Charles Soludo of Anambra. The Council expressed concern that these leaders have failed to prioritize security in their states, resulting in widespread violence, including killings and kidnappings. The OYC called on Southeast Governors, political leaders, traditional rulers, and community youth groups to take action and protect their people from the growing threat of terrorism in the region.
In particular, the OYC took issue with the security approach in Anambra under Governor Charles Soludo. The organization urged Governor Soludo to disband his current political security network, “Agunaechemba,” and replace it with a legitimate community-based security system led by youth leaders and town union presidents. The OYC expressed concerns that the political motivations behind the current security network could further escalate the violence in the state.
The OYC also called on community leaders across the Southeast to unite in the fight against criminal elements. They recommended coordinated efforts to search local forests and bushes where criminals and kidnappers hide. The Council cited the historic Aba Women’s Resistance of 1921 as a model for collective action, urging Igbo youth to stand against crime and ensure the safety of their communities.
Another significant concern raised during the meeting was the prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The OYC accused past and current Southeast Governors of politicizing Kanu’s release and warned that further delays could lead to unrest in the region. The Council called for immediate action, stating that the prolonged incarceration of Kanu could have serious consequences for the stability of the Southeast.
In its efforts to continue advocating for the interests of Igbo youth, the OYC also announced the formation of a National and State Convention Committee to organize its upcoming National Convention scheduled for February 8, 2025. New leadership will be elected during the event to steer the OYC’s future direction.
The OYC concluded by urging all Igbo youth to actively engage with the organization and contribute to addressing the pressing issues facing the Southeast.
Signed:
Comrade Igboayaka O Igboayaka– National President
Comrade Ifeanyichukwu Nweke– Secretary General

Igboayaka National President Ohanaeze Youth Council
