Authorities have confirmed what has been described as a massive resignation and desertion of personnel from Ebubeagu, a local vigilante group established by southeast governors.

Recall that in January, unknown gunmen beheaded Ebubeagu commander in Ebonyi State and kidnapped others.

Reports that leaked on Friday alleged resignation and desertion from the vigilante group by its agents, citing fears of attack by unknown gunmen who have killed at least 15 team members since January 2022.

A senior security team commander in the group who confirmed the development on Sunday said the resignation had started since the first week of February, saying some personnel had deserted without submitting resignation letters.

According to the source who requested anonymity, hundreds of people deserted the group after the recent attack on a security team in Ebonyi and Imo state.

“Some are leaving on the pretext that gunmen have threatened to destroy their families,” the source said, adding that four people who deserted the team have been apprehended and will face the law if found to be involved in any exterior reasons.

Meanwhile, South-East residents and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have accused Ebubeagu members of attacks and extrajudicial killings in the region.

According to IPOB, members of the vigilante group operate alongside federal forces who kill and abduct youths, including its members.