Nigeria's south east region continues to face persistent attacks by criminal elements referred to as "unknown gunmen," responsible for killings, arson, and attacks on security outposts. In response, state governments have launched localized security initiatives. On December 15, 2025, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah launched a revamped Enugu State Forest Guard equipped with drones, 10 Hilux vehicles, 40 motorcycles, and bulletproof vests. The force comprises vetted local youths aged 20 to 45, trained under the Enugu State Security Trust Fund, and tasked with securing forests, preventing kidnappings, and addressing farmer-herder conflicts. The unit operates alongside police and NSCDC, following approval by the South East Governors' Forum. Reports indicate a sharp decline in attacks by unknown gunmen since the guard's deployment, though herder-related violence persists at reduced levels.
In Imo State, Governor Uzodimma established the Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation on January 10, 2026, unveiling 7,000 trained operatives at a passing-out parade. Backed by the Imo State Security Organisation Amendment Law No. 3 of 2025, the group functions as "eyes and ears" for intelligence gathering. The governor cited peaceful Christmas celebrations in 2025 as proof of improved security, stating, "The era of constant fear is gone and now behind us." He emphasized community collaboration, quoting, "When the right hand washes the left, and the left washes the right, both hands become clean."
Abia State's Governor Alex Otti launched "Operation Crush" on August 19, 2023, after the collapse of the regional Ebubeagu security outfit. The initiative targets kidnappers and armed robbers, with 20 patrol vans distributed to security agencies. Otti warned criminals to leave Abia or face "decimation." Ebonyi State, meanwhile, introduced two outfits—Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Watch and Ebonyi State Vigilante Corps—under former Governor David Umahi, who announced them on February 18, 2023.
Governor Uzodimma claims Imo has entered a new era of peace while still relying on a vigilance group formed after the collapse of a prior regional security effort. The same pattern repeats across the south east, where governors launch new forces amid admissions of past failures. If Ebubeagu collapsed in Abia, and new outfits are only now being deployed, the region's security gains appear fragile and reactive. Citizens remain exposed each time a government rebrands failure as progress.
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