An investigation led by Catholic criminologist Emeka Umeagbalasi alleges that Fulani jihadist expansion into Nigeria’s South-East is backed by federal government funds and foreign sources.
An investigation led by Catholic criminologist Emeka Umeagbalasi alleges that Fulani jihadist expansion into Nigeria’s South-East is backed by federal government funds and foreign sources. The report claims covert land grabs under schemes like RUGA are displacing Christian communities, with the federal government accused of coordinating the effort. “Fulani Jihadism Conquest Project in Igbo Land… is openly and undeniably coordinated by the Federal Government,” the report states. Umeagbalasi told Crux that Enugu and Anambra states are under pressure to cede land, warning that “The Islamisation of the South East is no longer a false narrative—it is now real.” He cited a June massacre in Benue State where over 220 Christians were killed. Umeagbalasi also pointed to cases like Alhaji Sali Friday Nnamane, who allegedly returned from the North to spread Islam. “Right now, the South East is sitting on a keg of gunpowder,” he concluded, blaming both federal and local governments for complicity.