NNEWI—The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPoB) has reiterated its commitment to eliminating criminal elements in the South East region of Nigeria, including ISWAP insurgents and criminal herdsmen. The group announced its readiness to work with local security outfits to maintain safety and protect the region’s borders from external threats.
In a detailed statement issued by its Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the pro-Biafra group emphasized its zero-tolerance for criminality and vowed to defend the South East and South-South regions against any invasion. IPoB highlighted the role of its Eastern Security Network (ESN), which was established in 2020, as a key force in combating security threats in the region.
“The global family of the Indigenous People of Biafra, under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that criminal elements do not gain a foothold in Biafraland. ESN has consistently demonstrated loyalty to its core mandate of protecting the South East from killer herdsmen and their affiliates,” the statement read.
ESN’s Role in Safeguarding the Region
IPoB credited ESN for its effectiveness in keeping the South East safe from the growing threats of insurgents, criminal herdsmen, and armed groups. According to the group, while other regions in Nigeria, such as the South West, struggle with the invasion of ancestral lands by these groups, the South East has largely been spared due to ESN’s proactive efforts.
“Unlike other regions, the South East and South-South are not under siege from killer herdsmen or jihadists. This is a testament to the stellar work of ESN, which has secured our borders against these invaders,” the statement noted.
The group also accused certain Igbo governors and politicians of working against ESN’s efforts by allegedly aligning with external forces to destabilize the region. IPoB claimed these politicians are envious of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s popularity and global influence and are attempting to demonize the ESN to weaken its public acceptance.
Collaboration with Local Security Outfits
Reaffirming its stand against criminality, IPoB expressed willingness to collaborate with local security agencies to eradicate crime and insecurity in Igboland. The group alleged that some crimes in the region are politically motivated, orchestrated by politicians who are opposed to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s quest for Biafran self-determination.
“For the record, IPoB opposes all forms of criminality and injustice. We will work with any security outfit necessary to drive out criminals, including those sponsored by politicians seeking to destabilize our land,” the group stated.
Addressing Allegations Against ESN
The group dismissed allegations linking ESN to incidents of insecurity in Igboland, describing such claims as state-sponsored propaganda aimed at discrediting the organization.
“ESN was created in 2020, but insecurity in Igboland only escalated in 2022. This timeline exposes the lies propagated by those who blame ESN for insecurity. The real culprits are those who benefit from insecurity and seek to use it as a tool to blackmail IPoB,” Emma Powerful added.
Assurance of Igboland’s Safety
IPoB declared its determination to resist any attempts by external forces to conquer or destabilize Igboland. The group reassured the people of the South East that it would continue to defend the region’s sovereignty and safety.
“Biafraland will never be conquered by jihadists or their collaborators. The Igbo race will not bow to anyone, regardless of the cost. We remain steadfast in our mission to protect our people and ensure their freedom through lawful means,” the statement concluded.
As tensions persist in various regions of Nigeria, IPoB’s renewed commitment to security and collaboration with local outfits underscores its intent to safeguard Igboland and its people from criminal and insurgent activities.
