In a statement issued Friday, the group said Akobo, Nyirol, and Uror counties are now secure, describing the region as safe for civilian movement and humanitarian work after what it termed the successful completion of its operations in the Greater Lou Nuer area.
The statement, signed by SPLM-IO spokesperson and Chairperson of the National Committee for Information and Communication, Pal Mai Deng, emphasized that measures have been put in place to protect civilians and prevent further instability.
“We have taken all necessary steps to ensure the safety of civilians,” Deng said. “The situation has normalized, secure zones have been established, and displaced residents can now return to their homes without fear.”
According to the SPLM-IO, the improved security environment also allows humanitarian organizations to resume their activities after disruptions caused by earlier fighting with the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF).
“We inform all humanitarian organizations that Akobo, Uror, and Nyirol are now safe zones,” Deng added. “They are encouraged to return to their bases and continue providing essential services to communities in need.”
The movement also called on the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN-OCHA) to support efforts aimed at addressing urgent humanitarian needs in the region.
“We appeal to UN-OCHA South Sudan to coordinate rapid humanitarian assessments and responses so that assistance reaches affected populations in a timely manner,” the statement read.
The SPLM-IO described the current situation as a positive development in efforts to restore normalcy and support peace-building in Northern Jonglei. However, it noted that continued coordination with humanitarian partners and international actors would be necessary to sustain stability and address the needs of returning civilians.
While the group maintains that security has been restored, observers and aid agencies are expected to closely monitor developments on the ground to assess conditions and ensure that humanitarian access remains uninterrupted.
