Security and intelligence sources have raised concerns over the movement of suspected terrorists from northern Nigeria into parts of the South-East and South-South following sustained military operations against insurgent groups in the North-West.

According to the sources, many fighters displaced from strongholds in Zamfara and Sokoto states are using forest corridors and river routes that pass through Niger, Kwara and Kogi states to reach southern parts of the country.

Security officials identified Kogi as a key transit point because of its strategic location and extensive network of forests and waterways linking northern and southern Nigeria. They said the routes allow armed groups to move across states while avoiding major security checkpoints.

A retired military officer explained that the terrorists often travel through remote bush paths and cattle routes that connect northern forests to communities in the South-West, South-East and South-South regions.

Intelligence sources also revealed that some of the forest routes extend through Ekiti, Ondo and Edo states, providing access to southern areas. The development has prompted increased surveillance and security operations in several states.

The sources further alleged that some terrorist groups have shifted their strategy from seeking ransom payments to carrying out mass abductions aimed at securing the release of detained commanders.

Despite the warnings, security agencies in the South-East maintain that there is no confirmed evidence of established terrorist camps in the region. Officials in Anambra, Imo and Abia states said they remain vigilant and have intensified operations to prevent infiltration by armed groups.

The Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, said it had encountered criminal elements in forests and border communities but had not received intelligence confirming a coordinated movement of terrorists into the state.

Similarly, the Imo State Police Command dismissed reports of terrorist settlements, stating that ongoing raids and joint operations with local vigilantes had helped keep forests and communities under surveillance.

The Abia State Government also said there was no known terrorist presence in the state but assured residents that measures were in place to prevent any security breach.

Authorities have urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activities as security agencies continue efforts to track and contain the movement of displaced terrorist groups across the country.