Alleged secessionist Informant Arrested in Isseke-Orsumoghu Axis, Pre-Burial Levies May End Amid Crackdown

By Our Correspondent

In a significant breakthrough in the fight against insurgent-linked extortion in Anambra State, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, have arrested a 62-year-old man alleged to be a key informant and extortionist working with a secessionist group in Ihiala Local Government Area.

The suspect, identified as Bernard Odinchefu, was apprehended on October 1, 2025, in connection with a network accused of imposing illegal levies on local traders and families in the Isseke and Orsumoghu communities — areas long troubled by insecurity and separatist activity.

A statement issued by the Anambra State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed that Odinchefu coordinated the collection of monthly levies starting from ₦10,000 from individual traders, and sums of ₦100,000 or more from families planning burial ceremonies.

The funds, according to preliminary findings, were allegedly funnelled to a “Commander” in a known terrorist camp.

“This arrest is a decisive step toward dismantling criminal structures operating under the false banner of secessionist struggle,” said Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu.

“These elements are not freedom fighters — they are extortionists who prey on the most vulnerable in our communities.”

The development has sparked cautious optimism in the region, with residents and community leaders in the Isseke-Orsumoghu axis hoping that the arrest could signal the beginning of the end for the crippling “pre-burial levies” and trader taxes that have persisted in the area for years.

For many in Ihiala LGA, particularly in Orsumoghu and Isseke — areas long considered flashpoints for secessionist-linked militancy — the news marks a potential turning point in efforts to restore lawful commerce and traditional life, often disrupted by armed groups demanding allegiance and payments.

Security analysts have described the arrest as symbolic, noting that while Odinchefu may not be the top leader of the extortion network, his position as an alleged key financial coordinator makes him a valuable link in unravelling the broader structure.

Police say the suspect remains in custody, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend other collaborators and dismantle the terrorist financing pipeline in the region.

In his statement, CP Orutugu reaffirmed the commitment of the Anambra State Police Command to protect residents and free communities from the grip of criminal enterprises masquerading as political movements.

“Let this arrest send a clear message to those extorting and terrorizing our people under any guise: the law will catch up with you,” the CP warned.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities and support the ongoing efforts by security agencies to sanitize troubled areas, particularly ahead of the year-end season traditionally associated with increased community ceremonies and commercial activity.